Thirty-two years of marriages, births, funerals, and other celebrations have passed since the last time the families of Ben and Mona Johnson have gathered.
Carolyn Johnson, Kris Osler, and Teresa Johnson, along with help from other family, planned an incredibly fun-filled July 19 weekend for relatives to get reacquainted. Friday evening was a time to reflect on the Johnson heritage by holding a memory service for those who have passed.
Stories were shared, along with a slide presentation of family members. A talent show was available for those who wished to take part. Saturday consisted of a historical family driving tour.
An information packet featured maps, family facts about homesteads, cemeteries, and pictures showing locations and points of interest. The tour ended at Teresa and Keith Johnson’s house which had many activities and games for all ages to enjoy.
They rounded out the evening with a potluck meal and more activities.
Ben Johnson was born Nov. 5, 1883, on a farm near Glenvil, while Mona Mouser was born Dec. 1, 1887 north of Bladen. Ben and Mona were married for 42 years. They lived on a farm about four miles west of Fairfield.
The Johnsons experienced perils throughout their farming years but always found a way through them. Instilling an early deep-set faith in God was the foundation for their family and way of life.
One of their children Doris wrote, “We were blessed by parents strong enough to fight thru disappointments and hardships without blaming anyone… blessed by parents rich enough in spirit to keep the little ones from knowing how tight things were…blessed by parents who prayed with us and taught us to pray…who taught us right from wrong...who would not tolerate dishonesty or lies or any of the sort…who demanded more of themselves than of anyone else. Each was the personification of integrity. That is how they showed us their faith.”
Upholding the Johnson Heritage are still many descendants living in Clay County. Family members also attending the reunion came from Alaska, California, Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Indiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Texas, and Wyoming.
