Marietta S. Johnsen

Marietta Sylvia Johnsen, 89, of Willmar, MN and formerly of Sioux City, died Saturday, June 18, 2011 in Willmar. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 23, 2011 at Nelson-Berger Northside Chapel with Rev. Dave Denzer officiating. Burial will be in Graceland Park Cemetery. Visitation will be the hour prior the the service at the funeral home. Marietta was born on December 20, 1921 in Sioux City Iowa to Florence and John Johnsen. She attended school in Huron, South Dakota and Sioux City, Iowa. After graduating from East High School, she earned degrees from the University of South Dakota (BA) and the University of Minnesota (MA). In subsequent years she taught and was the librarian at schools in South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota. A special year was as librarian in an Army dependent school in Pirmasens, Germany. She was librarian at Willmar Community College from 1962-1982. She would at times appear to be very stern, but underlining this facade was a caring heart. She would do whatever she could to help her students. Marietta was a world traveler taking many trips and tours with friends. She organized group trips to the Gutherie Theater and other events in the Twin Cities. After her retirement she discovered in herself the love of children. She enjoyed planning parties and interesting projects for the children in the neighborhood. They all have fond memories of her. She also had many adventures with her "adopted" dog, Keisha. Marietta attended Vinje Lutheran Church in Willmar, MN. She was active as the church librarian, Sunday School teacher, Friendly Visitor, and other volunteer positions when called upon. As the church librarian she spearheaded the reorganization and card cataloging of the entire library with the help of many volunteers. When she lived in Sioux City she was a member of Morningside Lutheran Church. She also served as a member of the Pioneerland Library Board and volunteered at the Willmar Historical Society. She is survived by her first cousin John Sorum (Louise) of Fairview SD, and several very special relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father John Johnsen and her mother Florence Nelson Johnsen. Memorials are preferred to Morningside Lutheran Church.