To be remembered are her examples of gentleness and patience and a seemingly uncomplicated approach to her life. She somehow managed to maintain peace and decorum as best she could. With an unspoken determination to provide for her household she applied herself to the raising of children and taking care of her family, often disregarding her own feelings.

Our Mutti instilled in us a diligence, a quest for adventure, love of nature and the simple yet rich rewards of life, along with appreciation and value of others. She was a Modern-day Renaissance Mother with varied interests and hobbies ranging from stamp collecting and calligraphy to sewing, baking and horticulture. She retired from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst Botany Department where she enjoyed working in the greenhouses and growth chambers that contributed to teaching plant biology and carrying out research of rare and endangered plants.

In her later years, with the onset of Parkinson's Disease, our Mutti became more dependent on others which was not an easy adjustment for her to make. As the disease progressed, this adaptation became more apparent.  With grace and patience, she adjusted.

Monika's children are grateful to have benefited from the traits the Lord bestowed upon her and will aspire to be the blessing to others that she inspired.  We thank God for the treasure of a mother he gave to us. She is still with us, and we look forward to rejoicing with her in heaven as well as with our Dad.

Monika Theresa Johnson passed away at home on February 13, 2022, surrounded by loving family and caregivers. Monika will be missed greatly by her son, Michael Johnson of Tucson, AZ, her daughters, Kristine Johnson of Tustin, CA, Barbara Johnson of Laguna Woods, CA and Lorraine Otero and her husband Pablo Otero of Indian Wells, CA; her sister, Maria Boehme of Bavaria, Germany, her nephew, Michael Boehme of München, Germany, his wife Rita Boehme and their son, Felix Boehme.  Monika was especially grateful for the wonderful care provided by her friend Flora Victoria and the caregivers at Cornerstone Homes in Laguna Hills, CA as well as many beloved friends.