Natalie Johnson

LIVESTREAM LINK: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=32CLZmiP9n8

Natalie Elizabeth Johnson, a radiant soul who brought light and joy to everyone she encountered, passed away suddenly on October 3 2024. Born on September 23, 2014, in Gothenburg, Nebraska, Natalie was cherished as the beloved daughter of Erick and Jenna (Moody) Johnson. She is survived by her loving parents, her adoring brothers Tom and Louie, and her dear sister Annie, whom Natalie lovingly embraced in her role to her as a "little mama." The warmth of her spirit will also be profoundly missed by her grandparents, Tom and Malissa Johnson and Ken and Laurie Moody; great-grandparents, Lois Johnson and Harold Bacon; aunts and uncles, Tina (Gary) Basinski, Ben (Hannah) Johnson, Luke (Jessica) Johnson, Grahm (Libertie) Johnson, Kyle Moody, Katie (Nate) Kamrath and Bryan (Rachael) Moody and many cousins (whom she loved playing house with and was the “boss” of). She has many great aunts and uncles, extended family and friends who will miss her dearly and so will her favorite cat, Roofus. She was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Jonathan and Glenice Schaumann, Bonnie Bacon and Lois and Orvis Moody.

Natalie's presence was one of independence and a unique spark that endeared her to many. Described as sometimes sassy and always spirited, she had a remarkable ability to make those around her smile. Her love for life was evident in her many interests and hobbies. An avid crafter, Natalie thrived on the creative process, often transforming simple materials into beautiful creations, reflecting her talent for making something amazing out of nothing. She held a special fondness for all things girly, loved dressing up, and having fun with her friends. 

In school, Natalie was a bright student enrolled in the fourth grade at Goodhue. Before that, she attended grade school in Red Wing through 2nd grade. Natalie was a proud participant in the annual daddy/daughter dance, eagerly anticipating this treasured event each year with glee. Her most favorite time of all was time with her family—making her ritual Friday night popcorn or her Sunday night pizza and AFV (America’s Funniest Videos), she just loved being together. 

Her faith was a cornerstone of her young life. Natalie loved going to church, where her love for Jesus was most evident. She found joy in her spiritual community, creating bonds that would last a lifetime. Known as a "Heart Warrior," Natalie faced the challenges presented by her congenital heart defect with bravery and resilience, truly embodying the spirit of a champion. She proudly participated in the Twin Cities Heart Walk the past few years and was always excited to walk through the survivor’s lane.

The heartfelt memories of Natalie will be celebrated and shared beginning on Friday, Oct. 11 from 4-7 p.m. at her visitation and during her funeral service on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 1 PM. Both gatherings will take place at the New River Assembly of God Church, located at 240 Spates Ave, Red Wing, MN. Natalie's service will be live-streamed and a link will be posted here when available as well as on the New River Assembly of God website.

As we remember Natalie, let us honor her creative spirit, her love for the little things in life, and the immense joy she brought to those lucky enough to know her. Though her time with us was far too brief, the love and happiness she shared will live on in our hearts forever.