Beverly Jean Johnson

Bev peacefully left this life Sunday March 22, 2026 surrounded by family, after a long courageous fight against Parkinsons disease. She is now reunited with Nils Peter, her one and only love, Paul Newman excluded.

Beverly was born January 5, 1942, to Emil and Laura (Bishop) Novak in Rhinelander. She was the third of four children. After graduating from Rhinelander High in '60, go Hodags, she married her high school sweetheart Pete in '62. Her two sons came along in '66, Jess Frost, and '67, Rick Michael. The family went with Pete around the country for work, finally ending up in Utah.

While raising her boys, Bev went back to school and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Utah in '84, not an easy feat. She earned a degree in elementary education. Working for Granite school district she taught at several schools and grades. Bev was at home in her classroom. After decades in the classroom, she was determined to remain doing what she loved most and worked well into her 70s as she finished her career as a mentor to new teachers.

An avid sports fan, she loved the Green Bay Packers, the U of U and the Utah Jazz. If not enjoying sports, you could find her with a book in her hand. She loved to read and devoured books. The annual reading trips she took with her sister and nieces were some of her favorite times. Late nights and good, good times. Love you Aunt Bub.

A devout Catholic, her faith helped guide her in this life. She rarely missed mass and only stopped late in life when her disease limited her mobility. She was faithful until the end and found peace and comfort in her beliefs.

Bev was a devoted and beloved grandmother who cherished her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a constant presence at all their activities, including sports, plays and programs, always the number one fan. She created lasting memories through fun outings and special trips. She was a unique and integral part of her family, and her loss is deeply felt. She will be missed forever.

Proceeded in death by her parents, two brothers, Eugene and Wayland "Bud" and her husband Pete. She is survived by Her sister Donna Kohlbeck, her sons, Jess and Rick (Gina). Three grandchildren Lindsay (Edward), Alexa (Taylor) and Peter. Six great-grandchildren, Harrison, Olivia, London, Isabelle, Noah and Olive. She loved her relationships with all of them. To know her was to feel her love.

A gathering in Bev's honor was held on Monday, March 30 at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Beverly was laid to rest during a private family service at Murray City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to a charity of your choice.

We will forever love and miss you.