In memory of

Ella Dianne Johnson

Dec 10, 1947
Jan 19, 2021

Obituary

Ella left this earthly existence to join the love of her life and soul mate Gary. 

Ella moved to Portland, Oregon, at an early age, where she grew up with her brother and sisters

She attended Robert Grey School through the 8th grade and then wen to Wilson High School graduating gin 1964.  Ella attended Oregon State University, majoring in English.  She later attended Willamette University where she studied Law and passed the bar exam for State of Oregon.  Ella worked for the State of Oregon for overt 25 years.  In her last position, she was an Administrative Judge and retired from the state after serving in this position.

During her employment she met Gary Sjolander when they were working on a state matter together.  They were married and Ella not only had a new husband but she also fell in love with Gary's daughter, Stephanie.  They developed a loving relationship and year later Stephanie blessed them with three grandchildren.  Ella and Gary also added several cats to their family which they took loving care of over the years.  They always had several cat, they all had names and a most comfortable home to live in with Ella and Gary.  Ella and Gary spent many happy years together.  One of the highlights of their marriage was seeing Ella's dream come true to take a trip to Egypt.  They had many pictures and wonderful memories of the this experience.  Gary took good care of Ella and Ella took good care of Gary and they were most happy when they were together.

She was preceded in death by her parents Dr. Rulon Johnson and Alice Brown Johnson, and her sisters Julie and Brenn.  Her heart was broken when her husband Gary Sjolander passed away in 2016.  They are together once again having a wonderful reunion.  Ella is survived by her brother Jeffrey H. Johnson (Ann), Stephanie Sjolander Pipgras (Mathew), brother-in-law Mark Luff, three grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

The family is grateful to Ella's beloved Stephanie for the many visits and help and comfort she was to Ella these last few years.  She helped her with chores around the house, errands, taking care of Ella's cats, who Ella called her family as she enjoyed the companionship of her feline family.  She and Stephanie often enjoyed lunch together when Stephanie was in Salem.

Due to Covid 19 there will be no service.  Ella and Gary's ashes will be scattered at Rockaway beach; their favorite beach, on a later date.

If you wish to make a donation you can do so to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in honor of Ella Dianne Johnson.

Messages of Sympathy

  1. Daina Upite says:

    I miss my friend, Ella, and I think of her every day. She was my first friend and my support when I moved to Salem over 25 years ago. In recent years, after Gary’s passing, I admired Ella’s resilience and independence, despite significant challenges, not least the isolation imposed by the pandemic. Stephanie, you have been an amazing, consistent, generous and loving support for Ella. Bless you for your continuing care of Ella’s feline family. I pray that now Ella and Gary are reunited in love.

  2. Debra Young says:

    I will miss my friend, Ella. She was a sweet, wonderful person who met the many challenges of her life with grace, strength, and independence. Her heart broke when she lost her soul mate, Gary, but she carried on to the best of her ability with loving care from Stephanie. Ella had a special place in her heart for her three cats and would be so grateful to know that Stephanie will give them a good home. Bless you Stephanie for the love and care you gave Ella.

  3. Miles Johnson says:

    Thank you for trusting Johnson Funeral Home with her arrangements.

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