Viona Johnson Henderson

Viona Henderson, age 95, passed away on October 14, 2020 in Park Rapids, MN. She went to be with the Lord after a decline in health. Viona was born to Olaf and Flossie Johnson in Cherokee, IA on May 23, 1925. She had 4 brothers; Ivan, Russell, Mitchell, and Jerry and 4 sisters; Hazel, Marthena, Berniece, and Marcella. She married the love of her life Joseph Henderson.  They traveled a lot during his military stint and finally settled down in Park Rapids, MN. They had two children together, Jeanette and Lawrence. After her husband’s passing in 1976, she stayed busy with her gardens at her house and selling her vegetables from it. She was loyal to Ford and John Deere brands.

In the winter, she drove down to McAllen, TX to enjoy her free time Polka dancing and bowling. Viona had a busy season with 217 Polka dances in one season! She was a fiercely independent lady who did what needed to get done. We should all follow her motto “when you rest, you rust”. She didn’t start slowing down until 92. She will be dearly missed.

She is survived by a son, Lawrence Henderson of Lester Prairie, MN and a daughter, Jeanette Shute of Sandstone, MN,  Four grandchildren; Charlene (Ken) Rolli of Houston, TX, Cherilyn (Todd) Johnson of Andover, MN, Joseph Henderson of Long Lake, MN and Elizabeth Staska of Wayzata and 13 great-grandkids.

Viona was preceded in death by her parents, her Husband, Sisters Hazel Anfinson, Marthena Scott, Berniece Spinelli, and brothers, Mitchell Johnson and Russell Johnson.

There will be a private graveside service for close family only on Oct 31, 2020.