Jacqueline M. Johnson

Jacqueline "Jackie" Johnson, a beloved, mom, grandma, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2023, at the age of 90.

Jackie was born in Milwaukee, WI on January 22, 1933 to her parents Stanley and Madeline Mecikalski. She grew up there and attended Pulaski High School through her junior year. Her family moved to South Milwaukee where she graduated from high school in 1950. She married Harlan Johnson in 1957, and settled in South Milwaukee where they were soon raising four children. Jackie worked tirelessly to provide them a loving home, creating happy memories of jelly bean trails at Easter, picnics in Grant Park on the 4th of July, and wonderful Christmas mornings.

When her youngest child reached school age, Jackie went to work for a local car dealership before being hired by City of South Milwaukee. It was there she established an extraordinary 31 year career in public service. In 1982, she was elected as the South Milwaukee City Clerk, a role she served in for 22 years with amazing energy, knowledge, and integrity. Although dedicated to her work and her community, Jackie always prioritized her family over her professional responsibilities and accomplishments. Nowhere is this more evident than the pivotal role she embraced as she lovingly raised her grandson Bryan, undoubtedly one of her greatest and proudest achievements.

An avid sports fan, Jackie enjoyed watching professional sports, and loved watching her children's and grandchildren's games, especially football and baseball. For many years, Jackie organized (and often won) the family football and college basketball tournament pools, bringing family members together for good food and a little competitive fun. One of the things Jackie loved most was spending time at her sister’s cottage in Minocqua. She also loved reading, solving crossword puzzles and other word games in the daily newspaper, and a good game Trivial Pursuit. She enjoyed movies, and all types of the music, especially Frank Sinatra and the music and showmanship of Adam Lambert.

Jackie is predeceased by her parents, her husband Harlan, her brother Stanley, and her sister Sylvia. She is survived by her son Don (Jenny), son Glenn (Donna Wallace), daughter Janet (Tim) Talaska, son Craig, and grandson Bryan Johnson. She will be missed by her grandchildren Eric and Michelle Johnson, Ryan Talaska, Jack (Lili Hangartner) Talaska, Kalli (Mike) Ventura, Garrett and Tanner Johnson, and her great-grandchildren Noah, Candace, Theo, and Nina. She is further survived by many nieces and nephews.

As we celebrate Jackie's remarkable life, we remember a woman who dedicated herself to her family and her community. Her legacy of love, service, generosity, and selflessness will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.