Catherine "Kitty" Marie Johnson

MADISON-Catherine Marie Johnson died October 16, 2017. She was born to Joseph and Florence (Kowahl) Ressel, on the family farm, September 21, 1928, near Independence, Wis.  Family members addressed her as Catherine, while she was known as “Kitty” to her friends.  Catherine graduated the 8th grade from Saint Peter and Paul Catholic Grade School of Independence in 1942.  She graduated Independence High School in 1946.  Catherine graduated from the Milwaukee Accredited Schools of Beauty Culture, Inc. on May 16, 1947.  She attended these classes in Eau Claire, Wis.  Her diploma reads as follows:  Catherine Ressell completed instruction in the following subjects: Permanent, Marcel, Finger Waving, Shampoo, Scalp and Facial Massage, Manicuring, Hair Tinting and Cutting, and the use of Electricity. She received all “A” grades.  Catherine got her first job as a Hair Dresser, in Mondovi, Wis.  She extremely enjoyed her chosen profession for 53 years.  Catherine met Clifford Rodney Johnson at the Dance Hall in Independence.  They were married July 29, 1950.  Her young family moved to Madison, Wis. in 1955.  Catherine was a very long time member of Our Lady Queen of Peace church in Madison.  She loved her sons very much, and taught them to be honest and caring.  Catherine was a Cub Scout Den Mother, Sunday School Teacher, and participated in every aspect of her children’s activities.  Catherine was preceded in death by her husband Clifford, of 65 years, in 2016, unborn son Mark in 1963, and son Perry in 2009.  She is survived by son Kimm (Susan) and son Rodney, plus four grandchildren, one step-granddaughter and one great-granddaughter.  Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, October 23, 2017 at the GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton.  A lunch will follow at the funeral home.  Burial will be at St. Mary’s of the Lake Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday. The family would like to thank the staff of Agrace HospiceCare and at Oak Park Place for their wonderful care given to Kitty.   In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in her name. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.