Maxine Johnson

Maxine Leah Johnson, 80, of New Hampton died Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at her home in New Hampton. Funeral Services were held Sunday, October 14 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Monona with Rev. Erika Kielstrup as the Officiant. Burial followed at Monona Cemetery, Monona.

Maxine was born June 24, 1938 to Donald and Marcella (Sabbann) Tayek in Linton Township, Allamakee County. She graduated from Monona High School in 1956 and earned her degree from Upper Iowa University. Maxine was united in marriage with John Johnson. Three children were born to this union. They later divorced. Throughout the years, Maxine was a special education teacher in Farmersburg, secretary for Dr. Pfeiffer in McGregor and also worked at Community Action for many years. She was also the first woman tour guide at Spook Cave.

She enjoyed making crafts, knitting and crocheting. Maxine tended a large garden and would preserve her harvests. In her spare time, she relaxed by reading and doing word find puzzles. Maxine was a 4-H member and helped with many 4-H projects.

Maxine is survived by her children, Sheila (Dean) Lipa of Elma and Neal (Nereyda) Johnson of Hampton; her grandchildren, Krystina (Travis Teslow) Lipa, Brianna (Travis) Gilbert, Christofer (Katherine Daniels) Johnson, Craig (Jordan) Johnson and Michael (Barb) Johnson, Jr.; her great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Roger (Bev) Tayek of Marion, Marlys (David) Kaiser of Saskatan, Canada and Ron (Gloria) Tayek of Farmersburg. Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Marcella Tayek; her son, Michael Johnson; her nephew, Jake Tayek; and her niece, Andy Halverson.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona assisted the family with the arrangements.