Lois Augusta Johnson

Lois Augusta Johnson passed away on June 20, 2025, two days before her 104th birthday at Munson Hospice House. Lois was a remarkably self-reliant woman who had been living independently at her home until a week before her death from complications of a stroke. She was strong and resilient with a sharp intellect and memory until the moment she left us. Lois was born on June 22, 1921, in Traverse City to the late Frank and Louise (Witt) Semrow who had immigrated from Germany. She grew up on a farm near the corner of Secor and West Silver Lake Road. Lois was the youngest of five girls and often spoke of the struggles and hardship of her early years. As an adult she did not eat potatoes because she said she had to pick so many in her youth. She did not always have shoes as there were not enough to go around for all five of the sisters. Lois attended the one-room Dunn School through 8th grade prior to entering the old Traverse City High School on 8th Street. She graduated in 1939 from a Commercial Course. The caption under her name, “Blondie Steps Out”, may have been a prophecy as she was a striking brunette at the time. Lois was born the year that ushered in the roaring 20’s and she embodied the spirit of the time; always fashionable, fun-loving, and adventurous throughout her life. She valued her independence and welcomed the changing role of women. When her father died Lois was in her early 20s. She moved to town with her mother and cared for her until her mother passed away many years later. On September 11, 1943, Lois married Raino (Ray) Johnson from Crystal Falls, Michigan who was in the Navy and stationed here. During WWII Traverse City was the site of secret naval training on Lake Michigan using converted Great Lakes passenger steamers as aircraft carriers to train pilots before they were deployed to combat theaters. Personnel stayed in local hotels and homes, and Lois remembers Ray’s “barracks” being the Park Place Hotel. They were building a life together after the war following Ray‘s graduation from Central Michigan University when he became ill and passed away in 1954. Lois remained devoted to him and never remarried but had many friends that brought her companionship and shared adventures. Lois loved to travel, garden, and always kept up with local news. She went to Hawaii many times. She was an avid reader of the Record Eagle. Lois was helpful to her older sister and brother-in-law when they owned the U & I Lounge for many years and was proud of the family business that still operates at its present location on Front Street. She was a member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary Bowen-Holliday Post 35 and awarded for her contributions. Lois was dedicated to her career in banking that spanned decades with positions of increasing responsibility over the years. She began as a teller and rose to the highest female post at the Traverse City State Bank. She was the manager of a group of tellers and stationed at her desk in the lobby entrance. Her precise attention to detail and professionalism were well respected. At her 35th anniversary with TCSB the Bank Times wrote that Lois “has contributed her charm, wit, and perhaps most importantly her expertise to the customers and employees of TCSB”. Lois was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sisters Bina McGarry, Gladys Dunn, Margaret Snow, and Frances Meyer. She is survived by 8 nieces and nephews and many grand and great-grand nieces and nephews. She will be missed. Per Lois’ wishes, she will be laid to rest at Oakwood cemetery next to her beloved husband on August 15, 2025, at 10 a.m. The family will then join Munson Hospice for a butterfly release in Medalie Park at 11:00. Lois loved butterflies and this observance is a fitting tribute to her memory. All are welcome. Should you wish to make a contribution in her honor consider a donation to the American Legion Bowen-Holliday Post 35.

Lois Augusta Johnson

June 22, 1921 - June 20, 2025