Art & Corinne

Art & Corinne Johnson have been neighbors of our since we moved into town when I was six-about 16 years. Today, my family and I went to Corinne Johnson's memorial service. She passed away February 13 of this year. Her husband, Art, passed away July 17, 2008. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to make it to his memorial service because I was at college. But today, we remembered Corinne. And I was glad I was able to be there. So, I'm sure many of you won't know who they are, but I wanted to take time to write down my fond memories of them.

When I was little, I remember Art & Corinne more as the people who my parents talked to because they were much older. They never wanted proper titles, such as Mr and Mrs, but always just went by Art & Corinne. As I got a little older, we had all these fundraisers for school. Art & Corinne would always support me. It was such a blessing. I remember times where we stood in the backyard and talked as they gardened. They'd ask me about school and life, always caring about even the small details.

Our street used to exchange Christmas gifts. Art & Corinne would always make Elderberry Jam and send some over with some cream cheese and special home-made bread. Delicious. It's one of those memories of them I'll miss and sometimes at Christmas, I just wish I had some of their Elderberry Jam.

After graduation from high school, I went off to college. But when I'd stop over on my breaks, they'd always want to hear about how things were going. If I hadn't seen them in a while, they'd ask for me to come over and see them. At this point they started sharing more of their life, past and present. I love hearing older people speak. They have such a wealth of wisdom and life.

Their one son is a very talented opera singer. I've never been one to much appreciate opera. But I have a specific memory of sitting on the couch with them watching opera Christmas Choirs and such. I wasn't too fond of it, but figured they could use the company. Looking back now, I'm glad I took the time to do it. I don't regret the time spent with them. They were both wonderful people. They lived very full lives. When Art passed away, neither of them were in good health. Here, not even 2 years later, they are both gone. It's sad. And they will definitely be missed. This is my loving memory of Art & Corinne.

As their daughter so well put it today, may they both rest in the arms of Jesus. My love and prayers are with their family.