Donna Rae Johnson

Donna Rae Johnson

Donna Rae went to argue the injustice of her demise before St. Peter on April 19, 2015. She died unexpectedly at home in the comfort of her own bed. She was born on February 25, 1930, into poverty, but experienced abundance. She knew strife, but was at peace. She was a life-long advocate against unfairness, and a pioneer for women in law. She was and will remain a source of strength for all who knew her. She graduated from Roosevelt High School at 17, earned her BA in Journalism from the University of Minnesota by 20, went to John Marshall Law School on the GI Bill, became a licensed attorney in 1956, and practiced law excelling at being a voice for the voiceless ever since. She and her husband had a cross burned in their yard in the 50s when stationed in the South because they refused to follow prevalent social norms. She confronted the police during race riots in the 60s, she and best friend Peg worked with at-risk youth at the House by the Side of the Road in the 70s, she made efforts to create jobs for minorities in the 80s, and she travelled the world in the 90s to find solutions to food shortages and starvation. She was the most caring and loving mom, grandma and great-grandma we could ask for. She was always available to her children and those who needed her to offer sage advice or just to be near. In her life she was a daughter, sister, orphanage “visitor,” dancer, wife, mother, aunt and a constant in many lives as friend and mentor. She spent her last vibrant day on earth visiting family, appearing in court, working out with her personal trainer and enjoying an ice cream cone with daughter Karen at the DQ on a beautiful spring day. She lived a long and full life, and died too soon for many of us. She will be greatly missed. Survived by children, Karen Johnson, Diane O’Brien, Linda Johnson, Eric (Beth) Johnson, and Matthew (Megan) Johnson; grandchildren, Janice O'Brien, Michael O'Brien, Sam Johnson, Lily Rae Johnson, and Haseley Rae Johnson; great-granddaughter, Nora Jean DeGaetano; sisters, Valerie (Tom) McGruder and Leslie (Bill) Strom; brother-in-law, Virgil Orner; and numerous relatives and friends. Preceded in death by parents, Raymond and Martha Lambert; and sisters, Marlys Orner and Susan Lane.