Karen Johnson

Karen Johnson, a lifelong resident of Sabula, IA, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the age of 85. A memorial service to honor Karen’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, at Calvary Lutheran Church in Sabula. Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the church prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

Karen was born on August 20, 1939, to Martin and Gladys (Summerville) Driscoll. She grew up in Sabula, where her parents owned Driscoll’s Hardware. As a child, she attended Sabula Schools, and it was during high school that she met the love of her life, Leslie Johnson. They married on September 12, 1956, and together built a life centered on faith, family, and farming.

In 1967, Karen and Leslie purchased their farm, which would become their lifelong home. Their farm was a testament to their hard work and dedication, housing a variety of livestock, crops, and a flourishing garden. Karen was an integral part of the farm’s daily operations, there was nothing she couldn’t do. Her passion extended to her garden and flower beds, which she tended with great care.

Karen was known far and wide for her baking, particularly her homemade fresh buns. She baked them by the dozen for special occasions, filling her kitchen with the comforting scent of fresh bread. Later in life, she enjoyed gathering with friends for coffee and lunch, cherishing those moments of fellowship. She also volunteered at Mercy Hospital in Clinton, serving in the coffee shop, where her kindness and welcoming spirit were always felt.

Faith was a cornerstone of Karen’s life. A devoted member of Calvary Lutheran Church, she found strength and purpose in her faith community. Above all else, her greatest joy was her family. A loving mother and grandmother, she embodied patience and devotion, always placing her loved ones at the heart of everything she did.

Karen’s memory will be cherished by her five children: Brenda (Larry) Hank of Liberty Center, IN; Leslie “Peewee” (Diane) Johnson of Clinton, IA; Tom (Laura) Johnson of Sabula; Dean (Kristie) Johnson of Sabula; and Kelly (Mark) Beeck of Maxwell, IA. She is also survived by her 15 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, as well as her sister, Kathy (LeRoy) Michaelsen of Camanche, IA.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leslie; her parents, Martin and Gladys; and her great-grandson, Braden Nestleroad.

Karen’s unwavering love and strength will be deeply missed, but her legacy of hard work, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in those who knew and loved her.