of Chelsea, Michigan, age 89, died Saturday, November 14, 2020 at the Arbor Hospice Residence in Saline. She was born January 11, 1931 in Albion, Nebraska, the daughter of John “Jack” A. & Etta (Pape) Mannlein.  Mary Ann attended elementary school at St. Joseph Catholic School, and graduated from Dexter High School in 1949. On January 13, 1951, she married Norman G. Johnston at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, and he survives. She was a dedicated wife and mother, she enjoyed sewing and cooking. Mary Ann was a member of the Altar Society at St. Joseph for many years. Mary Ann and Norm enjoyed vacationing at their property in northern Michigan.

In addition to her husband, Mary Ann is also survived by her children: Peggy A. Tripp of Virginia Beach; VA, Karen M. (Anderson Brown) Johnston of Ann Arbor; Diane L. Wilson of Howell; James N. (Deborah) Johnston of Ft. Myers, FL; Kenneth A. (Violet) Johnston of Chelsea; Catherine M. (James) Jackson of Ypsilanti; David L. (Theresa Street) Johnston of Norfolk, VA; and one sister JeNelda Naylor of Dexter; 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by one brother, Duane Mannlein and one sister, Janice L. Ano.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, with Fr. Brendan J. Walsh officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Dexter. The family will receive friends Tuesday, Nov. 17 at Cole Funeral Chapel. Due to Covid restrictions, please call 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church (Stairway to Future campaign), 3470 Dover St, Dexter MI 48130.


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