She was born at home in Duluth on December 3, 1916 to Norwegian immigrants, Thorval and Theoline (Thorson) Thorson. She attended Merrit Elementary School, West Junior High and graduated from Denfeld High School in 1936. In her youth, Ellen was active in Girl Scout Troop #23.
On Jan. 3, 1942 she married John A. Johnson. They were married 66 years. Together they raised one son, Jack. Ellen worked as a secretary, retiring from the Rotary Club of Duluth. She also worked for Blood Donors, for the UMD Music department, and many other places. Ellen was baptized, confirmed, and married at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, and was a long-time active member of Concordia Lutheran Church. Ellen was an honorary lifetime member of the 125 Field Artillery Association.
Ellen is preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, son, Jack, brothers in-law, Frank (Elaine) Johnson, Alfred (Laura) Johnson and Arthur Johnson, and a nephew Timothy Johnson.
Survivors include Granddaughters Kathy (John) Jensen of Richfield, MN and Carol (Charles) Thiss of Greenwood, MN. Four great-grandchildren, George & Nora Thiss, and Anna & Maren Jensen. Daughter-in-law Judy (Chris) Nelson, sister-in-law Charlotte Johnson, Sykesville, MD, nephews Marc (Jean) Johnson, Larry (Paula) Johnson, Chris Johnson and nieces Claudia Kuklis, Connie (Dale) Gustafson, and Becky (Craig) Holt.
The family would like to express appreciation for the excellent care Ellen received from St. Croix Hospice, Barnes Care, and her long-time physician, Dr. George Apostolou.
Gathering 1:30 p.m. until the 2:00 p.m. Memorial Service on Friday, November 9th 2018 at Concordia Lutheran Church, 2501 Woodland Ave., Duluth. Rev. Jeff Davis officiating. Inurnment will be at Oneota Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to the Concordia Lutheran Church Choir.
