On November 22, 2011 Lydia Belle Johnson passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 96. Lydia was predeceased by her husband, Harvey (1990); parents, Matthew (Olive) Reynolds; brothers Kirk, Robert, Jack, and Earl; and aunt, Josephine Gilby. Left to cherish her memory are her sons Gaylen (Bev) of Nanaimo, BC, Graham (Sheila) of Irricana, AB, Barry (Gerri) of Chilliwack, BC; daughter Linda (Allan) Ausum of Candle Lake; grandchildren Heather, Michael, Kyla, Tim, Brandon, Tiffany, and Ashley; great grandchildren Brianna, Padraic, Chelsea, and Bryce; and sister Joyce Johnsrude of Sydney, BC. Mom was born and raised in Macoun, the second eldest of six children. She often reflected on her happy and yet challenging times growing up in small town Saskatchewan. She had fond memories growing up with the companionship of family and friends. Times were not easy especially during the 'Dirty Thirties' so mom moved to Weyburn where she studied to become a psychiatric nurse, graduating in 1939. She enjoyed working for one year following graduation. In 1940, she married Harvey Johnson and moved to the family farm south of Weyburn. As fate would have it, after returning home from their honeymoon, mom learned that she had contracted tuberculosis from working at the hospital and spent the next two years convalescing in 'The San'. Mom was one of the lucky ones who recovered and returned to her life on the family farm. It was during this time, that she raised four children and played an integral part in their development. During the latter years on the farm, Mom decided that she wanted to work outside the home. She worked at Sally Shops and later moved to Dora's Ladies Clothing Store in Weyburn. It was here that mom excelled at meeting and helping people who visited the store. Mom and dad resided on the farm until moving to Weyburn in 1972. Mom was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was also a person who believed that one needed to contribute to community organizations as well. She was a member of the Grace United Church Ladies Auxiliary, taught Sunday school and served as Worthy Matron for the Eastern Star. Mom lived in Weyburn until 2004, when she moved to Coronach to be closer to Linda. In 2009, due to ailing health, mom moved to Coronach Health Center where she resided at the time of her passing. She was very happy at the Coronach Health Center, referring to the staff and residents as her extended family. Thank you to the staff and all who knew her for the care they showed her during her stay at the center. Mom will be truly missed by all who knew her. A funeral service for Lydia was held on Friday, December 2 at 2:00 p.m. from Grace United Church in Weyburn with Rev. M. Barnabas officiating. Interment followed at Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. For family and friends so wishing, donations in memory of Lydia can be made to the Canadian Lung Association. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapels, Weyburn 306-842-5432
