Julie A. Johnson-Macdonald

Julianne Adele “Julie” Johnson-Macdonald died peacefully at her home in Oak Harbor on April 5, 2012 at the age of 61, following a long struggle with cancer. She was a third generation Johnson born in Mount Vernon to Skagit Valley pioneer, Clifford and Catherine A. (Howard) Johnson and was born on March 11, 1951.

Julie graduated from Mount Vernon High School with the Class of 1969. Following graduation, she entered the Nursing School at Washington State University, Pullman, but just before graduation, she was called home for the death of her mother. Julie remained in Mount Vernon, where she began working for her father and his business, Cliff Johnson’s Men’s Clothing Stores. She also started her own business, JJ’s Bouquets, a floral shop catering to businesses.

Julie began a career in real estate and during a sales event, she met Ronald Macdonald, a fellow agent and soon love blossomed. On Dec. 6, 1987, Julie and Ronald Macdonald were married in Burlington. They moved to Oak Harbor, which then became home.

Julie pursued her real estate career for a time and then moved into tax preparation. She worked for H & R Block, serving all of the offices on Whidbey for more than 22 years. Julie was an active member of the board of directors of the Samish Council for Campfire Girls for several years. She also formed a construction company, Lutefisk Enterprises, with her father. The company eventually ended up with 11 mobile homes, which Julie had reconstructed over time. Julie retired in 2010.

Julie had a lifelong passion for construction, a talent she obtained from her father. She was a gifted carpenter. She was so exacting in her work the family coined a nickname to illustrate her work. They labeled her work as “Julie Fit” meaning every cut was perfect. She took great pride in the quality of her work. She made no compromises and she would never cut corners. She was also a skilled seamstress, making her own clothes from Pendleton wool and also did wonderful needlepoint. She was the family historian, keeping much of the family history in her head. Her family had a long history on Whidbey, being a part of the Ferry House in Coupeville. Julie always accepted and embraced others as they were. She never uttered a mean or unkind word about anyone. Her ability to walk into a room and make others feel at ease will be dearly missed.

Julie is survived by her husband, Ronald; one brother, Robert “Bob” Johnson and wife Cecilia “Punkie” of Mount Vernon; one sister, Christine “Christy” Hopkins of Portland; and by three step- children, William “Bill” Macdonald and wife Robin of Camas, WA, Kelly Bralley and husband Rick of Deer Park, WA and Ronalyn “Roni” Doyle and husband Scott of Vancouver, WA. Julie was a beloved aunt to Suzanne and Alicia Johnson and Catherine and Casey Hopkins. Her parents and one brother, Howard P. Johnson, preceded her in death.

Julie requested no formal funeral services be conducted. Cremation was held with private family inurnment to follow. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.wallinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home & Cremation, LLC, Oak Harbor.