Chere Darlene Johnson, 82, passed away at her home in Myrtle Creek, Oregon due to cancer. Chere was born in Toledo, Washington to Frank and Mae Parnel. They moved to Blue River, Oregon in 1942 and then to Springfield in 1944 where she graduated from Springfield High School in 1956 before attending Lane Community College.
Chere got married on Dec. 14, 1956 to Arden Johnson, who preceded her in death, as did her son Douglas.
Her family was the center of her life along with traveling, camping, and hiking. Chere was Chairwoman of Lane County Extension in the 1970’s and received two national awards for programs she presented locally. She co-wrote the Slender Gourmet cookbook with longtime friend Julie Brown.
After retiring to Arizona, Chere and Arden traveled throughout the United States before settling in Myrtle Creek, where they designed and built their forever home. Chere then became an active volunteer for St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry until the time of her death.
Survivors include sons Wayne (Andrea) of Eugene and Brian (Dorene) of Glendale, Arizona, and a total of six grandchildren. No services are planned. A private family memorial will be held this summer near the McKenzie River.
