Memorial

Gerry Lee Johnston, 89, passed away peacefully on November 16th, 2021 at her home in rural Solon, IA.

Gerry was born on October 2, 1932 in Vincennes, IN to parents G.J. “Ted” Lorenzen and Anna Juanita Lorenzen. She was a graduate of Franklin H.S. in Cedar Rapids and of Coe College. She was an accomplished musician and was organist for the 1st Presbyterian Church in Cedar Rapids. She was a member of the Tri Delta sorority at Coe and was a member of Mortar Board for academic achievement. After graduation she married David Johnston of Springville, a Coe classmate, in 1954 and they moved to Iowa City where he attended medical school. She worked as an Executive Secretary at ACT for 23 years.  

Gerry could be described as a gentle and kind spirit. She was all about family and loved being a grandmother.  Her selflessness was matched only by her sense of humor and quirky wit. She had a genuine interest in other peoples’ stories and always held people captive in conversation. 

She was an avid Hawkeye basketball fan and loved to travel the world with her team doctor husband David.  

She will be missed dearly but leaves us feeling blessed having had her in our lives.

She is survived by her husband, David; their four children, Steve (Cristie), Jeff, Dan, and Scott; grandchildren, Cameron, Chelsie, Ian, Roman, and Caelan; her sister Judy Conrad (Duane); and nieces and nephews, David, Lisa, Mark, and Cindy. She was preceded in death by her parents, G.J. “Ted” Lorenzen and Anna Juanita Lorenzen; daughter-in-law, Prudence; and step-grandson, Seth. 

In Lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in her name. Contributions can be sent to: 114 Oreole DR NE, Solon, IA 52333, c/o David Johnston. The family will be holding a private celebration of life.