Deborah Kaye Johnson

Deborah's Memorial Service can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/910050034

Her tribute video may be viewed here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/Q4YCFZJQFMKPFM92

Deborah Kaye Johnson, “Winkie”, age 67, passed peacefully on January 31, 2024. Deb was born July 26, 1956, to Edward L. Emerson and Jean L. Hannestad at Edwards Air Force Base, north of Los Angeles, CA. She was the best sister to Diana, her only sibling and best friend. Upon living in multiple states, Deb and her family returned to Fargo, ND, where she graduated from Fargo North High School in 1974. She began a 40-year career in Telecommunications, holding management positions at St. Luke’s Hospital (now Sanford Hospital) and AVAYA. She was highly respected by her colleagues for her leadership, humor, and outstanding work ethic. Deb retired on December 31, 2022.

On October 19, 1985, she married the love of her life, Robert Anton “Omar” Johnson. They met while she was a purchasing agent at St. Luke’s, and he was her office supply salesman! They were married for 33 years until he passed in 2018. Together, they built a beautiful life at Nelson Lake, Lake Park, MN. They enjoyed pontooning and morning coffee with their dear friends Herman and Rennae “Granny”. She loved gardening and took great pride in her beautiful yard. They always enjoyed entertaining friends and family. It wasn’t uncommon to see her and Omar cruising around the lakeside neighborhood on her Mule. She will forever be remembered for the “Bring your Sweetie to Tahiti” parties! Deb was always ready for a fun time, shenanigans, and a good laugh. Deb and Omar enjoyed traveling and socializing with others. Her heart was broken when Omar passed too soon.

In 2019, Deborah moved to Fargo and was a special “auntie”, friend, and neighbor on 10th Street North. She always enjoyed tinkering in her yard, grooming her plants, and spending time spoiling the children in the neighborhood. Her smile and love were contagious.

In addition to being a great neighbor and friend, Deb was a caretaker, especially to her sister, Diana, when she needed her most. Together, they enjoyed traveling, thrifting, decorating, and shopping! In 2022, Deb was diagnosed with Crohn’s. Her battle with this disease was long, hard, and lonely. Her sister Diana walked the long journey beside her until the very end.

The family wishes to express gratitude for the outstanding care given to Deb these last weeks at ICU@SMCF. She was touched by many caring hearts and hands.

Deborah is survived by her sister, Diana Emerson, Fargo ND; dear friends, Herman and Rennae Weiss; sister-in-law, Julie (Lyle) Wang, Hawley, MN; niece, Jodi; and nephew, David; aunts, uncles, and many cousins.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Omar; and her parents, Edward & Jean Emerson.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to LifeSource, www.life-source.org .