Mae Ferrando Johnson

Mae Ferrando Johnson was born in Salt Lake City on May 23, 1926 to Giovanni and Margherita Berta Ferrando. Mae passed away on March 15, 2015 in Lakewood, Colorado. She was the fourth child born to a family of six children. Her family lived and worked on a farm in an area now called Cottonwood Heights. She said she never really felt the Great Depression since they lived a farm life and were pretty much self sufficient. Mae attended Granite High School, although she never received her diploma; her typing teacher refused to pass her because she wouldn't cut her long beautiful finger nails. 

She married Robert Johnson in April 1946 while he was still in the army.  She relocated to San Diego, California to be with him until he was discharged in November of 1947.  They then moved back to Salt Lake where they lived their lives together until Robert died in December of 1988. Robert and Mae had three children; Martina, Darnell and Carl.  Mae was a cook at the Cotton Bottom for 30 years.  She made many a garlic burger during her time and was a friend to all. She enjoyed spending time with her family, neighbors and friends. She loved to chat and have a beer. She had an amazing laugh and a quick wit. 

In August of 2010 when she needed more help in life, she moved to Colorado to live with her son Carl and his family. There she was cared for by Carl and his wonderful wife, Twila.  

Mae is survived by her son Carl (Twila) Johnson; her son-in-law Ron Crapo; grandchildren Chad (Libby) Crapo, Hailey (Glen) Tracy, Robert Johnson, Dylan Johnson and Wyatt Johnson; great-grandchildren Ireland and Isabelle Crapo and Spencer and Jack Tracy; her twin brothers Joe (Nola) Ferrando and Johnny Ferrando. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert; daughters Martina and Darnell; and sisters Mary, Margret and Minnie.  

There will be a celebration of her life on Saturday, April 18, 2015 from 6 to 8pm, at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, where complimentary valet parking will be provided on the north side of the building. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Mae's name to Best Friends Animal Society at www.bestfriends.org or 5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab, UT 84741. Online condolences may be offered at www.starksfuneral.com