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01/23/2013 11:00 PMMadison has lost a luminous community leader. Eileen Johnson, beloved wife of Gunnar Johnson, died last night after batling pancreatic cancer.
Well known as her husband's partner at their Gunnar Johnson Select School of Dance, she was equally well known for her grace and tenacity in community efforts with groups such as the Rotary and the Madison Chamber of Commerce.
Updated: Arrangement details have been provided by Eileen Banisch.
Calling hours will take place at Swan Funeral Home, 825 Boston Post Road, Madison on Sunday, Jan. 27 from 3 to 6 p.m.
The funeral will take place on Monday, Jan. 28 at 10 a.m. at the North Madison Congregational Church (at the circle), followed by a reception in the Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Middlesex Hospice, 28 Crescent Street, Middletown, CT 06457.
Condolence cards may be sent to Gunnar Johnson, 149 Ridge Road, Madison, CT 06443.
Updated: Obituary from Swan Funeral Home
Eileen Mary Johnson of Madison, beloved wife of Gunnar, passed away Jan. 23 at Middlesex Hospital surrounded by her family. Eileen was born in New Jersey, the daughter of the late Joseph and Kathleen Balmer. She is predeceased by her two brothers John and Arthur Balmer.
Together Eileen and Gunnar owned and operated the Gunnar Johnson Select School of Dancing in Madison for more than 40 years. Eileen and Gunnar were directors of the Dance Educators of America and earned the title of Harvest Moon Ball Champions. Eileen has served on the Madison Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for more than 12 years. It is largely because of their guidance and tenaciousness that Madison is such a beautiful town. She was a tireless volunteer for the Chamber and the town that she loved so much. Eileen and Gunnar, as a duo, received both Citizen of the Year and Member of the Year from the Madison Chamber of Commerce. She was a volunteer reader for the Chamber’s Read Aloud program for two classrooms every year for 15 years, and in 2012, Eileen received the Madison Jaycees Distinguished Service Lifetime Achievement Award.
Family and friends may visit the Swan Funeral Home 825 Boston Post Road, Madison, on Sunday Jan. 27 from 3 to 6 p.m. Memorial services will be held on Monday at the North Madison Congregational Church at 10 a.m. Graveside services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Middlesex Hospital Hospice 27 Crescent St., Middletown, CT 06475. For online tributes and condolences please visit www.swanfuneralhomemadison.com.