Sarah (Sally) Johnson (82) is dancing on the streets that are golden with Ken Johnson. Her daughters, Karna Johnson, and Kara (David) Kuneli were by her side as she peacefully entered Heaven following a stroke. She’ll be remembered by Jennifer, Melissa, Daniel, Steven (Adrianna), and Kristianna Kuneli as a grandmother who celebrated each child’s individuality.
Thelma (Peg) and Ralph (R.O.) Brown raised Sarah in Brimfield, OH with her beloved brother Jim, (Colorado Springs). Sarah is a descendant of four Mayflower Pilgrims and several Revolutionary War Patriots (Jim is still counting). A social butterfly, Sarah was active as a girl at Kent State High School (1959), Methodist Youth Fellowship and various service organizations.
By the time she met Ken, a student at Kent State University, Sarah was a part-time beauty queen, secretary to a Kent State VIP and cruised around in her ’57 Chevy convertible. There are legends, and then there is the story of how they met. They fell madly in love and married; their romance deepened for 56 years.
As a young couple they lived in Evanston and East Lansing before setting in East Grand Rapid with their daughters. Sarah’s creativity made her an extraordinary homemaker, hostess and mother. She was a skilled seamstress, avid gardener, exceptional cook and amateur interior decorator. Sarah later shared her knowledge with others in her Apples of Gold course. Imparting these skills and values to her daughters was a central focus for Sarah, but she gave Kara and Karna a gift more vital than practical lessons; she mentored them in their Christian journeys throughout her life and prayed for them constantly.
Always on trend, Sarah embraced the Jesus Movement of the 1970s and became a dedicated follower of Christ. Until her death, she remained committed to Jesus, prayed without ceasing and served the Lord by serving His people. Sarah’s work with post-war Vietnamese refugees (Fifth Reformed Church, Grand Rapids), was especially impactful. Sarah was blessed that many of them remain extended family to the Johnsons.
Eventually settling in Holland, (1994) Sarah and Ken built their home with dedicated space to host survivors of tragedy, transitioning missionaries and others in need. It also became a hub of church meetings as they became engaged in leadership at Lakeshore Vineyard Christian Church. Countless people experienced God’s love in a tangible way while staying with the Johnsons. Sarah would have told you she was only a vessel of the Father, but she continuously rose to the occasion and her talent was matched to this calling.
Sarah loved Ken with great devotion. Their deep abiding love for each other made their marriage an example to many. They traveled the globe for romance, exploration, skiing and missions. Favorites include Leelanau County and Colorado where they connected with God’s glorious creation.
Now, because of Him who united them, they’re reunited and will live happily FOREVER after.
Visit the family Sunday, June 16, from 4-7 PM at Langeland Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 16th St Holland MI 49423.
Celebration of Life Monday, June 17, 1 PM at Lakeshore Vineyard Church, 710 Central Ave. Holland MI 49423.
Donations may be made to Sarah’s most recent interest, The Come and See Foundation, (The Chosen) bringing Jesus to the masses.
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