Beatrice "Beba" Anna Kay Johnson

BEATRICE ANNA KAY (MALACH) JOHNSON Beatrice “Beba” Anna Kay Johnson, was born on October 12, 1929 in Park Falls, WI to the late Bohumil and Mary (Smetak) Malach. She was a proud graduate of the Lincoln High School Class of 1947. Beatrice was the 6th child in the family who was always surrounded with love and support from her older siblings: Rudolph (Rud), Joseph (Joe), Annette (Dolly), Albert (Al), and Hazel. Her younger brother, Stanley, preceded her in death at age 9 from a tragic accident. It was Stanley who had affectionately given Beatrice the nickname ‘Beba,” which continued throughout her life. Even before she graduated, Beba was employed in the superintendent's office, under the supervision of the District Superintendent, Mr. McLaughlin. She continued that employment until she got married to the man of her dreams, Jerome Johnson, a Lincoln High School history teacher. The two were married on August 8, 1964 in Park Falls and then moved to Boulder, CO. Beba worked at the University of Colorado in Boulder doing clerical work while Jerry pursued his masters in library science. They loved the mountains but family drew them back to Wisconsin in 1970. It was then that Beba & Jerry were blessed with the son that made their family complete. Kendrick (Rick) was born on April 29, 1971, and was always their pride and joy. The three of them remained in Whitewater until 1994 when they moved back to Park Falls where they lived out their lives. Beba is survived by her son, Kendrick (Rick), eight nephews & six nieces and numerous relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; her six siblings; four nephews and one niece. Beba treasured her dear friends, many of whom have left this world, but her dearest childhood friends of 90 years are Joan Wells, JoAnn Gehrman and more recently, Dona Hessler all of Park Falls. They were her constant companions throughout her lifetime. For those who knew Beba, their lives were touched by a gentle soul who cared for many. The family would like to thank the staff at the Waterford for the wonderful care they gave Beba throughout her three years living there. Funeral services will be held at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Park Falls on Tuesday December 5, 2023 at 11:00am. Rev. Emerson Coy will officiate. Burial will follow at Nola Cemetery in Park Falls. A visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 10:00am until the hour of the service. Birch Street Funeral Service is assisting the family. www.birchstreetfuneralservice.com

Beatrice "Beba" Anna Kay Johnson

October 12, 1929 - December 1, 2023