Isabel C. Johannessen

Isabel Cecilia Johannessen, aged 93, passed away on Friday, October 13, 2023, at St. Anne’s Retirement Community in Columbia, PA. She was born in Philadelphia, PA, resided in Woodbury, NJ for 62 years and was the beloved wife of Harold M. Johannessen, with whom she shared nearly 74 years of unwavering love and companionship.

Isabel’s journey through life was marked by dedication and service. She was a graduate of John Bartram High School in Philadelphia, and her career led her to work as an executive secretary for the Bank of Gloucester County, where she made a lasting impact until her well-deserved retirement.

A woman of faith, Isabel was a devout Catholic and had been a member of the Infant Jesus Parish at St. Margaret’s Church. She was a cherished participant in the Women’s Comforting Ministry, where her compassionate heart touched the lives of many.

Isabel’s commitment to her community extended beyond her religious affiliations. She served as a Den Mother for Cub Scout Pack 295 and was an enthusiastic member of the Red Hat Society. For over four decades, she devoted her time and energy as a Democratic Committee Woman, tirelessly advocating for her political beliefs. Her dedication to the betterment of her community extended to her role as the president of the Green-Fields Fire Department Auxiliary.

Isabel is survived by her loving children: Christine Cheson, wife of Bruce, of Bethesda, MD, James Johannessen, husband of Antoinette LaPann, of Landisville, PA, and Mark Johannessen, husband of Mindy, of Rockville, MD. She leaves behind a legacy through her seven adoring grandchildren: Sara Cheson, Matthew Johannessen, husband of Molly, Colin Johannessen, partner of Meagan Carpenter, Lars LaPann-Johannessen, husband of Chloe McConnell, Christian LaPann-Johannessen, partner of Emily Bristol, Patrick Johannessen, fiancé of Drew Unseth and Christopher Johannessen. Isabel was also the cherished great-grandmother of Samantha and Madeline Hershfield, Kennedy and Jackson Johannessen, with one great-granddaughter due to arrive in November. She is further survived by her daughter-in-law, Eileen Johannessen and her sister, Rose Rendfrey. Isabel was preceded in death by her parents and a son, John Johannessen.

Services to commemorate Isabel’s remarkable life will be announced at a later date. Isabel Cecilia Johannessen will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched with her kindness, dedication, and unwavering love. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Isabel’s memory to St. Anne’s Retirement Community, 3952 Columbia Avenue, Columbia, PA 17512.