Willa Rae Johannsen

Willa Rae Johannsen, age 65, passed away on Friday, May 26, 2023.

Willa was born in Kodiak, AK on November 1, 1957 to William and Elizabeth Anderson. When Willa was twelve, she and her family moved to Washington State where she grew up in Oak Harbor. After high school, Willa attended college in Fairbanks, AK.

Children were always drawn to Willa. With her warm smile and gentle ways, employment at toy stores became a natural fit while raising her children. She also used her talent for cooking at restaurants in Bellingham, WA and Tok, AK.

Willa’s true passion was raising her children and spoiling her grandchildren by making each season magical with her heartfelt Christmas gifts, Easter baskets, and holiday surprises.

Always staying busy, Willa loved to cook and create floral baskets, as well as Christmas wreaths, beautifully painted flower pots, and bird houses.

Willa peacefully passed away at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her husband, Stephen, her three children, Karlyn, David, and Drew, her eight grandchildren, her mother, and her three siblings.

Deeply loved, Willa will never be forgotten.