Debra Kossett (Johnson), 64, of Duluth, passed away on May 12th, 2023. She was born on June 18th, 1958, and was a loving daughter to Kenneth (Ken) and Jeanette (Jean) Johnson. After graduating from Duluth Central High School in 1976, she furthered her education, eventually achieving her bachelor’s degree in nursing. Deb worked as a registered nurse for over 20 years at the formerly known, Miller Dwan Medical Center in Duluth. She truly enjoyed being a nurse, made many positive connections with former co-workers, and was a dedicated caregiver to her patients. Deb had a huge heart and loved her family and friends with everything she had. She enjoyed getting together for potlucks, holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. Camping, gardening, canoeing, painting, listening to music, and admiring beautiful flowers and hummingbirds were some of the things that brought joy to her life. Her greatest joy of all was her only child, Alissa. Deb loved her daughter more than life itself. A
Kenneth “Ken” LeRoy Johnson of Duluth passed away peacefully on Wed., June 8, 2022 at the age of 86. Ken was born Dec. 2, 1935 to Hjalmer and Sophie Keveri) Johnson in Makinen. Ken married Jeanette “Jean” Signell on July 11, 1955. Following his service in the U.S. Army, Ken and Jean raised their 5 children at their home in Rice Lake Township. Ken worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator at Reserve Mining in Silver Bay and later for St. Louis County Public Works in Rice Lake, until his retirement in 1998. He would proudly point out the roads he graded or plowed to his children. Ken and Jean were members of Arnold Lutheran Church (now Family of God) where they served in many capacities and built many friendships. Ken had a passion for most anything with a motor, especially motorcycles. He even convinced Jean to ride which was a huge feat. They both loved to travel, enjoying many wonderful trips together until Jean’s passing in 2006 following 51 years of marriage.