GARNITA JOHNSON

Garnita was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Kenneth Leonard Johnson, her sister Verna Zierke, and her brother Norm Zeckser. Garnita is survived by her brother Ken Zeckser, and her children Patricia (Bill) Poggi, Woodbridge, VA; Pam Johnson, Fort Dodge; Jae (Cheryl) Johnson, Eden Prairie, MN; Barry (Amanda) Johnson, Ames, IA; ten grandchildren Billy (Leah) Poggi, Leesburg, VA; Ashley (Nick) Vetrano, Ft. Worth, TX; Courtney Poggi, Ruther Glenn, VA; Sam Poggi, Woodbridge, VA; Anna Boyd, Chicago, IL; Abby (Ethan) Berge, Eden Prairie, MN; Cal Johnson, Minneapolis, MN; Adam Johnson, Ames Iowa; Carlie Johnson, Jenna Johnson, Ames, Iowa; and 5 1/2 great-grandchildren: Eli, Brooke, Maddy, Jon, Ryan and Baby Berge; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Garnita, the daughter of August and Matilda Zeckser, was born in Knierim, Iowa on October 5th, 1930. She graduated from Manson High School in 1947. On December 14th, 1952, she married Kenneth L Johnson.

Garnita was an independent free spirit, and ahead of her time in many ways. As a conservationist, she led the Phil Fox Chapter, Izaak Walton League for many years and helped initiate the Children’s Forest at Kennedy Park. She was also an active member of the ladies branch of Ducks Unlimited and a Girl Scout leader and cookie sales manager for her girls scout troops.

Garnita was known for her grand garage sales and creative cookie making. Both activities generated wonderful memories for many people.

In 1976, Garnita joined the Fort Dodge Senior High as a beloved secretary to the counselors. Countless students found her to be a trusted confidant and inspiration.

Finally, Garnita excelled at being an exceptional wife and mother. Her support, guidance and endless patience enabled many things to happen for her family.

Garnita made the most of every moment given to her. She was a proud wife and mother, and leaves a legacy of family and friends who will always be influenced by the moments she shared through her teachings, her faithfulness, her integrity and her love and grace as a fine woman of God on this Earth. Her spirit will always be with us.

Memorials will be used to establish a “Spirit of Life” scholarship in her name at Fort Dodge Senior High.

A celebration of Garnita’s life will be planned for this coming spring. Arrangements have been entrusted to Gunderson Funeral Home & Cremation Services.