Cecelia Johnson

Cecelia Ethel Johnson, 85, of Breckenridge, MN, passed away on Monday, January 7, 2019, at her residence in Breckenridge. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, January 10, 2019, with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m., at Joseph Vertin and Sons Funeral Home, Breckenridge. Visitation will resume from 9:00 a.m. to 10 a.m., Friday, January 11, 2019, at the funeral home and the Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m., at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Breckenridge. Father Tony Welle will be officiating, and the burial will be at Salem Lutheran Cemetery, Wolverton, MN.

Cecelia was born on August 6, 1933, in Mitchell Township (rural Wolverton), MN, the daughter to Alfred and Gladys (Albrecht) Ruediger. She grew up there and attended rural schools and later obtained her GED diploma. She had various jobs before she was united in marriage to Gordon Johnson on October 9, 1953, at St. Thomas Parish House in Kent, MN. Cecelia then began working for the Wolverton creamery and local school.

In 1954, they were blessed with their first child, Susan. Breckenridge became their new home in 1975, and along with the move, Cecelia was employed at Breckenridge High School. She retired in 1993, after 33 years in public school, food service. On May 28, 1985, Gordon passed away.

Beauty was found in the simple things for Cecelia; she filled her time with trips to her lake cabin and tending to her rose garden. She took pride in her garden and pristine landscaping which won several “Yard of the Week” awards. Many memories were cherished with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; they were her greatest joy. She also had fun with family and friends at the casino. Cecelia will be remembered by her love for dancing, family, and a heart for the Lord.

Cecelia is survived by her daughter, Susan (Tim) Kara of Barnesville, MN; grandson, Cory Kara of Pelican Rapids, MN, and his children, Quentin and Kyler; granddaughter, Tammy (Mark) Rambow and their family, Landon and Shayla of Barnesville; four sisters, Delores Peterson, Virginia (Bob Marks) Ruediger, Verlie Knutson, and Janet (Lee) Dobberstein; and one sister-in-law, Lois Ruediger.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Johnson; parents, Alfred and Gladys Ruediger; siblings, Avis Anderson, Donald Ruediger, and an infant sister; and special friend, Chester Melbye.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Joseph Vertin and Sons Funeral Home, Breckenridge.