Obituary of Helen Kay Johnson

Helen Kay Johnson (Varney), age 67, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on April 14, 2025. She was born September 14, 1957 in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Thelma Varney and Thomas (Jack) Varney. She attended Mid Michigan Community College where she attained an associate’s degree. From there, she worked as a driver manager for several years.

Helen enjoyed gardening, cooking, baking, and other at home projects such as making candles and bead crafts, though her greatest passion in life was her family. Her love for them radiated through everything she did. Whether it was going bowling, baking and decorating Christmas cookies, sharing ice cream from the ice cream truck, or tending to the strawberry patch planted for her grandchildren, Helen’s joy came from creating meaningful moments with them.

She is survived by her lifelong partner, Dave Hadden; her brother, Thomas (Julie) Varney Jr; her sisters, Patricia (Mark) Zilska, Dee Leavitt, Donna (Carla) Varney; her children, Jeremy (Mel) Johnson, Mike (Kellie) Johnson, Melissa Castillo, Casey (Terrah) Johnson; her grandchildren, Dominic Johnson, Rochelle Kukuk, Rory Johnson, Justin Johnson, Austin Castillo, Breanna Castillo, Jack Johnson and Jade Johnson; her great grandchildren, Stormi Castillo and Oakley Kukuk; as well as her dear canine companion, Ralphie.

Per Helen’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 24, 2025 at 2:00 pm at 630 N. M-30 in Gladwin, MI, with food to follow. Helen’s legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with Cremation Society of Mid-Michigan.