Ann Marie Johnson, age 84, sadly passed away on August 9, 2025. She was born July 8, 1941 to her loving parents, William and Anna (née Holzer) Atkinson.

Ann was born in Aurora, IL and raised in Winfield, IL.  She moved to Wheaton after marrying her beloved husband, Lee. They later moved to Carol Stream, which became Ann’s home for the next 50 years. She worked as a Professional Secretary for Webster, McGrath & Carlson Land Survey and Civil Engineering in Wheaton for 30+ years until she retired. And she was active in her community as a member of the Carol Stream Women’s Club in the 1970’s.

For many years, Ann combined her love of art and her devotion to helping others by becoming active in numerous art classes, groups, clubs, and organizations.  She was well known and loved in both her local and national art communities for her decades of volunteer involvement.

Ann was an active member of the Illinois Prairie Painters Guild in the 1980’s.  Soon after, she became involved as an active member of the National Society of Decorative Painters.  Initially volunteering for the Society as Recording Secretary, Ann later became President, running from 2005-2006.  In 2012, Ann served as President of Windy Brushes of Northern Illinois, a chapter of the Society of Decorative Painters.  She ultimately became a Board Member-at Large with the Society, receiving numerous awards in appreciation for her service.

Ann was also a decades-long active member/volunteer with the DuPage Art League School & Gallery in Wheaton, where she was passionate about promoting local art, artists and students.  In 2017, Ann was awarded an “Honorary Lifetime Membership” for her exceptional service and outstanding dedication to the DuPage Art League.

In addition to being an accomplished artist herself, Ann was an avid reader, and most enjoyed stories by Irish authors.  She loved traveling.  She loved her family, friends, neighbors and colleagues.  She loved her cat.  And she especially loved Ireland.

Ann was preceded in death by her loving husband of 49 years, Lee Johnson; beloved daughter, Leanne Johnson; parents, William O. Atkinson and Anna Berniece Holzer Atkinson Martin; brother, Larry (Avice) Atkinson; sister, Pat (Leo) Mittman; niece, Stacey Mittman; and nephew, Kevin Atkinson.

She is survived by her daughter, Kristy Johnson Harkness; grandchildren, Shanan (Travis Silvernale) Harkness, Scott Harkness, and Shawnee Harkness; brother, Bill C. Atkinson; cousin, Marguerite Hernandey; and nieces and nephews, Holly (Gordy) Lippman, Craig (Erin) Mittman, Teri Atkinson, Amber (rob) Atkinson Barnes, Alicia (Laurin Fabry) Atkinson, and Jacob Atkinson.  Ann was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Iver and Esme.

Ann was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of Ann’s life will be planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The DuPage Art League School & Gallery, Wheaton, IL.  A fund has been established in Ann’s name (please scroll down to see the three choices labeled “Donations-Memorial fund-Ann Johnson”).

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.