LaRee Kesler Johnson "You Are My Sunshine" 1911 ~ 2011
LaRee Kesler Johnson passed away March 14, 2011 surrounded by her loving family. LaRee was born December 2, 1911 in Cove Fort, Utah. She was the eighth of eleven children born to William Henry Kesler and Sarah Losee Kesler. Her early years were split between Fillmore, Utah and the family farm at Cove Fort. LaRee learned early on the value of hard work, helping out with many chores at the fort as well as the family run café and filling station. LaRee attended college in Cedar City, a most enjoyable time in her life. LaRee married LeGrand Johnson on January 30, 1934 in Preston, Idaho. The marriage was later solemnized in the Logan LDS Temple. LaRee and LeGrand were the perfect complement to one another. They began Johnson Sand & Gravel in 1935, later to be known as LeGrand Johnson Construction Company. LaRee worked along side LeGrand in every aspect of the business. As the years progressed, their company expanded including ready mixed concrete, highway construction and asphalt paving, as well as a sand/gravel provider. LeGrand Johnson Construction does work in Utah, Idaho, Wyoming and Nevada. One of LaRee's greatest pleasures was providing employment to many men and women in the Cache Valley area. She often commented that the business was a success because of the teamwork of the employees whom she regarded as family. After the death of her husband in 1973, LaRee was bound and determined to continue the business. She expanded with a construction operation in Moab, Utah. LaRee enjoyed traveling with family as well as her gal pal, Jane Davis. They shared many enjoyable trips together. LaRee, always thirsty for knowledge, enjoyed reading and learning new things. She has served in many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. LaRee (mama) was an outstanding cook. Her rolls and apple pies were legendary, and those family holiday dinners will sorely be missed. LaRee enjoyed contributing to many local entities. Her favorite was the softball field at Utah State University which bears her and her husband's name. She loved her Utah State Aggies. LaRee is survived by one daughter, Janice J. Sackett (Richard); daughter-in-law, Jane S. Johnson; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild and one sister, Nell Ingram. She is preceded in death by her husband, LeGrand; son, Max L. Johnson; and three grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest 2nd Ward, 875 North 1500 East, Logan, Utah. A visitation will be held for friends and family Tuesday evening from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the ward. Interment will be in the Logan City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Utah State Women's Softball Program. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.larkincares.com. The family of LaRee Johnson wishes to express their appreciation for Dr. Steven Salisbury and the nursing staff at Logan Regional Hospital for their outstanding care. Mama will forever be in our thoughts and prayers.