Martha Johnson

Martha Jane Johnson, age 72, of Merrill, passed away on Saturday, March 27, 2021 at her home, while surrounded by her loving family and under the care of Compassus Hospice.  She was born on July 15, 1948 to the late Mary Ann Young in Merrill.   Martha met the love of her life, Thomas Johnson, and the two exchanged marriage vows on September 28, 1973 in Merrill.  He survives.

Martha had worked for Wire Products, Northern Wire, 3’s Company and the pea cannery, all in the Merrill area, until her retirement.  She enjoyed horseback riding in her early years, and in her later years, she looked forward to decorating her home for the holidays. Martha loved anything FAST, she had a need for speed, whether it was 4-wheelers, go-carts, or cars, she loved it all!  Martha was very family oriented and was there for them whenever they were in need throughout the years, she had a kind and forgiving soul and was not one to pass judgement.  She was an avid Packers fan, enjoying cooking and would work on her crossword puzzles.

Martha is survived by her husband: Thomas Johnson of Merrill, her children: Michael (Barbara) Ritchie of Merrill, Raney (Paul) Nowinsky of Kronenwetter and Cris (Tanya) Johnson of Merrill, 11 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, siblings: Carol (Gary) Hartwig of Merrill, Bonnie (Timothy) Banaszak of Waupaca, James Young Jr., Tom Young and Jeff Young, all of Merrill, sisters-in-law: Christine Young and Evelyn ‘Elaine’ Weisman-Dodd and half brothers-in-law: Floyd Johnson and Malcolm (Sonny) McGiurk, along with numerous nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by an infant daughter, mother: Mary Ann Young, stepfather: James Young Sr., sister: Dian Plautz, brothers: Roger Weisman, John Young and David Young, grandsons: Damon Johnson and Trever Ritchie and sister-in-law: Jamie Young.

A Celebration of Martha’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 from 1pm-2pm at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Compassus Hospice, especially Tim and Jen, for their care and support shown to Martha and her family during her last days.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.