Obituary of Shirley M Johnson

Shirley M Johnson, January 23, 2023 just shy of her 98th birthday, 02-12-25. Predeceased by husband, Earl F Johnson (2011), parents George and Eleanor Duva, brother Roy. Survived by loving niece Julie Harper-Wylie (Rick Wylie), Erin Chapin (Eric), Chase Jonason (Katie) and “the kids” Hannah (3) and Hugh (5 months) Chapin & Chase Jr (4) and Elle (2) Jonason, all of Edina, MN. Born in St. Paul, Shirley considered herself an “East Sider” for her entire life. Graduate of Johnson High School, Shirley worked at then St. Paul Fire Marine, now Travelers Companies. Most of her married life was spent as a homemaker, while Earl continued his position with 3M Company. Shirley was extremely proud of her Swedish heritage and created lasting family traditions. She was a member of ASI for many years, epitomizing her favorite saying, “Not Only Am I Perfect, I Am Swedish too!” Shirley created magical Christmas Days every year for Julie and then Chase and Erin. Her delicious Christmas cookies, including her famous chocolate chip cookies, were always perfectly formed and beautifully displayed on her crystal cookie plate. Devoted baseball lover, Shirley followed the Minnesota Twins with fervor. Frequented “Spring Training” games in Florida, Shirley was spotted chasing down Kent Hrbek, Kirby Puckett and Frankie V to secure autographs for Chase and Erin. She was sure she was related to Joe Mauer (another St. Paul kid), proudly displaying his autograph and letter to her each baseball season. She WAS a true fan. Her passion for Joe Mauer was followed by a childlike devotion to Walt Disney World. Starting in 1972, she and Earl traveled by car, and then by motor home, every year (minus one) to vacation and enjoy the magic of Disney. Julie and family joined the fun for 7 consecutive years. With “Mini Wheeler” friends, Shirley and Earl traveled coast-to-coast over the years, proud of the fact that she drove 3 of the RV’s but the last 2 were just too big for her to handle, considering she was just over 5 ft tall! We love YOU Shirl. We miss you, your infectious smile and laugh already. We know you are greeted in heaven by Earl and bountiful cookies and miniature Hershey chocolates. Keep smiling and waving those homer hankies in the sky-we see you! Memorial Service, Friday, April 14, 2023, 11 AM at Arlington Hills Lutheran Church, 1115 Greenbrier St. St. Paul, MN. If desired, memorials to the church.