Starla Johnson

Starla Johnson
Starla Lynn (Hillman) Johnson, 60, of Waseca died Thursday, September 20, 2018 at her home, surrounded by her loved ones, those dearest to her heart.
Starla Lynn (Hillman) Johnson was born on April 20, 1958 at Naeve Hospital in Albert Lea, MN.  Starla was the daughter of Arlington and Alberta (Becker) Hillman.  She was baptized at First Lutheran Church of Glenville and reaffirmed the faith of her baptism through confirmation.  Starla graduated from Glenville High School in the class of 1976.  She went on to further her education at Albert Lea Vocational School and earned a secretarial certificate.  Starla was united in marriage to Jon Alan Johnson on October 22, 1983 at the First Lutheran Church of Glenville.  Jon and Starla made their home in Waterville, where they raised their two children, Nicole and Lisa. Starla worked with her Mother-in-Law, managing "Golden Era Homes" a board and lodge for the elderly in Waterville.  After its closing, Starla went on to become a manager at McDonalds working for the stores in Medford, Waseca and Faribault.  Starla followed the love of her life, Jon across the country to Statesboro, Georgia where they made their home for five years. Starla made many friends who became like family.  Upon returning home to Minnesota, Starla returned to McDonalds in Faribault, where she was often known to others as "McGrandma."  Starla and Jon made their home on the lake in Elysian, then later moved to Waseca to be close to their family, including their daughters and grandchildren.
Starla was a member of Grace Lutheran Church of Waseca, as well as the American Legion Auxiliary of Glenville.  Starlas greatest joy came through spending time with others. She loved cooking and hosting gatherings with friends and family.  She enjoyed spending time with the love of her life, whom was also her best friend. She loved watching her children and grandchildren grow.  Starla was a caregiver, always taking care of others.  She often became like a second mother to many of her girls friends.  Starla exemplified love, commitment, friendship and family. Starlas infectious laugh and warm heart touched so many people. Starlas hobbies included bingo, camping and fishing.
Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Jon Johnson of Waseca; her daughters Nicole Benzick of Waseca, and Lisa and her husband Christopher Davidson of Waseca; her grandchildren Lilian, Carter and Madelynn; her mother-in-law Elna Johnson of Mankato, brothers and sisters: James Becker and his wife Judy of LaPorte, Cynthia Nelson of Northwood, IA, Audrey Hillman of Glenville, Sandra and her husband Dennis Fredrickson of Glenville, Lynnette and her husband Ron of Waseca, Arlington Jr Hillman and his wife Carol of Northwood IA, Joel Johnson of St. Paul, Jeri Johnson of Alpha, and Jana and her husband Terry Roemen of Ceylon, many nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.
Starla was preceded in death by her parents Arlington and Alberta Hillman, Father in Law Merlyn Johnson, her brother Terry Hillman, her sister Cheryl Hillman and her brother in law Kenneth Nelson.
Starla was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, a loving sister and a wonderful friend who will be sadly missed by all.
Visitation will be held at Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca on Sunday, September 23, 2018 from 3-6 PM and continue on Monday, one hour before services at the church. Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 24, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Grace Lutheran Church in Waseca.   Burial will follow at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca.