Pauline Louise “Tina” Johnson

Pauline, whose nickname was inspired by Tina Turner, was born on June 18, 1943 to Lolita and Leonard Johnson, in Marquette. She graduated from Graveraet High School, where she was an active member of GAA, playing tennis, badminton, and basketball. She was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church, also singing in the junior choir under Hildegarde Johnson. She belonged to Joy Girls and Luther League. Tina worked at the Morgan Heights Sanitarium, the Orchard Rest Home, and at Eriksson Radio Shop.

It was at the radio shop where Tina became writing friends with author, John Voelker, who became her mentor. Tina would also send her manuscripts to New York, in search of a publisher. Her pen name was Kathryn Charlotte Miller. There are tons of notebooks and books at home of her notes on English literature.

Tina also had a natural flair for decorating. She planted trees, bushes, and flowers at the family home and, as Judy would say, could make something ordinary beautiful by where she placed it!

She was born to be a care-taker; while young herself, she lovingly took care of her father, Leonard, when he was ill, along with older relatives. When her mother, Lolita, had a stroke, Tina tended to her care around the clock; she extended her mother’s life by 19 years. Together, they traveled miles and miles in the car, every day, all over the U.P., mother in a wheelchair, and enjoying every minute, with “On the Road Again” being their theme song.

When her mother died, Tina “died” too; she took care of everyone but herself. Eventually, as her health deteriorated, it was her decision to live at the Lighthouse Nursing Center (Mission Point) in Ishpeming. Upon its closing, Tina moved to Norlite, where she was treated and loved as a family member.

Tina is survived by her sisters, Judy (Joe) Gregorich and Lorraine “Billie” Johnson, all of Marquette, along with numerous nieces and nephews, great, and grand.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lolita and Leonard Johnson; siblings, Douglas (Mary) Johnson, Frederick Johnson, and most recently, Becky Johnson.

Family will greet relatives and friends on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Messiah Lutheran Church from 12:30 p.m. until 1 p.m. A memorial service will be held in the church at 1 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Andrew Plocher officiating. A dessert social will immediately follow the service.

The family extends heart-filled thanks to the wonderful, compassionate people at Norlite for their care of Tina and for Billie, at her time of need.

Tina no longer waits for the surprise Billie promised to her that was coming. The surprise was to fall asleep and awaken with the Lord; her cherished mother, and family and friends to welcome her to her eternal home. She is now very happy!

“For to live is Christ, to die is gain.” (Phil 1:21)

Tina lives on in our hearts and memories. Till we meet again, we love you, Tina!

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Tina’s name to Messiah Lutheran Church, 305 W. Magnetic St., Marquette, MI 49855.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting Tina’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com