Nancy C. Ekstrom Aston Johnson, whose life was rooted in service, family, and community, passed away peacefully on September 10th in Crystal Lake at the age of 94.
Born in Chicago to Walter and Astrid (Danielson) Ekstrom, Nancy moved with her family to Crystal Lake in 1943. She entered the eighth grade that year and later graduated from Crystal Lake High School, where she sang in the choir, played in the band, and earned Elocution Honors—an early sign of the eloquence and empathy that would define her professional life.
Nancy went on to study at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, and devoted nearly four decades as a speech-language pathologist in Crystal Lake and McHenry. Through her work, she gave countless individuals the gift of finding and strengthening their voice.
In August 1952, Nancy married Frank Aston, who was tragically killed in action less than a year later during the Korean War. In 1957, she found love again and married William C. Johnson. Together they raised five children: Paula (Chris) Easton, Todd Johnson, Jamie Sue Johnson, Lee Johnson, and Brian (Susan) Johnson. Her family grew to include grandchildren Aaron Easton, Jenifer (Jaryd) O’Brasky, Katrina (Jeremey) Reese, and Kendall Johnson, and great-grandchildren Sloane and Roman, each of whom brought her immense joy.
Beyond her career and family, Nancy lived life with zest. She was a skilled cribbage player. She could beat you badly at cribbage and then soothe your wounded ego with homemade Spritz cookies and the mischievous sparkle in her eye.
She was an avid enthusiast of tennis, golf, canasta, and bunco. She started crosswords and sudoku puzzles in pen, displaying her confidence as well as her intellect.. She was generous in sharing her time and her donations with the local food bank. She loved literature and supported our local library, avidly reading everything from poetry to biographies to thrilling mysteries. She held deep reverence for nature - her eyes would light up with joy and wonder while listening to music or birdsongs.
For 82 years she was a steadfast steward of her church and a devoted volunteer to the community as a devoted member of Bethany Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir, volunteered tirelessly, and nurtured lifelong friendships. Her voice also lifted in harmony with the Crystal Lake Community Choir.
Nancy will be remembered most for her gracious heart, quick wit, and ready sense of humor, which made her beloved by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Frank Aston; her second husband, William; her sister and brother-in-law, Margaret and Earl; her brother and sister-in-law, John Daniel and Betty; her sister-in-law Carol; her granddaughter, Sarah; and her in-laws.
Nancy’s life was a testament to resilience, faith, and generosity. Her legacy endures in the family she loved, the students she guided, and the community she enriched.
A small service will be held on Monday, September 22 at 2pm at the Grand Victorian of Crystal Lake, 965 N. Brighton Circle, Crystal Lake, Il 60012 in the 2nd Floor Church Room.
In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to make a donation in her honor may do so to Bethany Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, Illinois.
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