Verla Bernice Johnson, 90, of Fertile, MN, died on Wednesday, June 22, 2016, at her residence in Fertile. She was born on December 9, 1925, to Harry and Emma (Martinson) Wastweet in Fisher, MN. Verla attended Cottonwood School District #213 near Crookston, MN. Her family moved to Bear Park Township, Norman County, MN, where Verla graduated from the Gary High School in 1943. After graduation, Verla worked for the Gary Creamery as a bookkeeper.

On September 5, 1948, Verla was united in marriage to Kenneth Johnson at Sundal Lutheran Church, Sundal, MN. They bought a farm in Spring Creek Township, Norman County, where they lived and raised their family. In 2014, Verla and Kenny moved to Summerfield Apartments in Fertile. Verla was a lifelong and active member of Sundal Lutheran Church and a past area President of the Farmer's Union.

Verla enjoyed life and all it had to offer. Her joy when gardening, caring for birds, quilting, embroidering, and canning her produce was genuine. Giving gifts from the items she grew or made was Verla's way of saying, "you are important to me and I truly love you." Having family and friends over brought joy to Verla as she made them comfortable in her home. Often these gatherings were filled with music and dancing. She cared for others more than herself and accepted life's ups and downs with grace. Verla's faith gave her strength for today and hope for tomorrow.

Verla is survived by her beloved husband, Kenneth, Fertile; children: Dara (James) Narum, Gary, MN; Arlette (William) Peterson, West Boylston, MA; Kerry (Julie)Johnson, Pittsburg, MO; and Delane (Dean) Schaumburg, Bejou, MN; 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; siblings: Arlan (Carol) Wastweet, Rockport, TX; Gladys Smith, West Fargo, ND; and Janice (Richard) Koski, Fargo, ND; several neices, nephews, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter: Wendy Johnson; sisters: Evelyn Wastweet and Elda Ranz and brothers: Vincent and Alton Wastweet.

Memorial Service: 11 AM Saturday, June 25, 2016, at Sundal Lutheran Church, Fertile, MN.

Visitation: Friday from 5-7 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:30 PM in the Erikson-Vik-Ganje Funeral Home, Fertile, MN and one hour before the service at the church.

Burial will be in the Sundal Lutheran Cemetery, rural Fertile, MN.