Over the past week, we lost two dear friends, Frank “Snap” and Debbie Johnson of Spirit Lake.
Snap, the “Jersey Boy” was full of life, incredible wit, and great humor. Debbie, the beautiful WDM “Valley Girl” was caring and creative, a person who could take anything and turn it into a work of art. They raised their children, Brad and Heather, in West Des Moines.
In 1989, they moved to the Lakes area to work for The Stockdale Insurance Agency and a few years later, Snap and Debbie started their own group benefits company, Secure Benefits Systems. SBS was based in Spirit Lake and served thousands of government and small business employees across Minnesota, Iowa, South Dakota, and Colorado. They sold and retired from the business in 2020.
The two were actively involved in the community, giving time and dollars to many causes. Debbie served as board chair of IGL Rotary, Pearson Lakes Art Center, and Lakes Regional Healthcare Foundation. She also served on the board of the YMCA and, over the years, volunteered for many other non-profits.
They were blessed with five adoring grandchildren and enjoyed many trips to California and Chicago to spend time with the kids.
Their marriage of over 50 years was one of enduring love. They were truly soulmates. It’s only fitting that they passed within 24 hours of each other, Snap following the love of his life into the gates of heaven. One last salute to Snap and Debbie… ’til we meet again.
Mary Kay Bates
Okoboji