Marion Webber Schoener Johnson

Marion Johnson, a 68 year resident of Laureldale, passed away in the caring stewardship of the staff of Berks Heim on November 9, 2011.

Marion was born on December 6, 1916 in Stouchburg to May (Webber) Schoener of Strausstown, and Ralph Eugene Schoener of Marion Township. After living for six years in Stouchburg with her parents, Marion was raised by her maternal grandparents, Sallie (Lengel) and William P. Webber in Strausstown, all-the-while maintaining a close and loving relationship with her father who was a teacher, State Legislator, businessman and Berks County politician.

Marion graduated from Hamburg High School and then enrolled in Kutztown State Teacher's College from which she graduated in Elementary Education in 1937. After graduation she decided to change career course and enrolled at the Reading Hospital School of Nursing. While studying at the hospital she met W. Barton Johnson, who was teaching at Muhlenberg Township High School. They married in 1940 and lived in Reading. They became the proud parents of two sons. In 1943 she and her family moved to Laureldale where she maintained her residence until her recent move to Berks Heim.

Marion was a caregiver to her maternal grandparents in their final years and also to her father who was a large figure in the lives of the entire family. She enjoyed quiet pursuits such as lengthy talks with family, friends and neighbors. She was an avid reader of history and biographies. She also was an accomplished gardener and loved the many birds and small animals that enjoyed the grounds around her home.

She was predeceased by her parents, and by her son, Andrew B. Johnson. She is survived by her son, William B. (Karin) of Kent, WA and six grandchildren: Patrick M. (Diane) Johnson of Fleetwood; Kevin A. Johnson of Wyomissing; Stephanie L. (William) Covert of Bainbridge Island, WA; Shawna E. (Michael) Capp of Snohomish, WA; Melissa S. (David) Shippey of Fairbanks, AK and Robert A. (Dianah) Johnson of Mesa, AZ. She also had 10 great-grandchildren.

She will be interred at Laureldale Cemetery. Memorial Services are pending. The family wishes to thank the staffs of both St. Joseph's Hospital and Berks Heim for their very professional and caring support during her last two months.

Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., Laureldale is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be recorded at www.christfuneralhome.com.