Audrey Spalding Johanson (nee: Schlesing) entered her heavenly home on April 16, 2024. Born Audrey Albetine Earline to George and Louise (Bilzing) Schlesing on August 22, 1931 in St. Louis. She was the second of four children with siblings Darwin, Orville, and Doris, all of whom have preceded her in death.
Audrey married John D. Spalding in 1952 and was blessed with two sons, Daniel and David. Having been widowed by John, she is survived by Dan (Karen) and David Spalding, and Penny, as well as three grandchildren Kara and Joel (Meagan) Spalding and Brandon Spalding, and two step-grandsons Rob Panhorst and Scott Sexton. Additionally, she was cherished by eight great-grandchildren Alyssa and Ethan Spalding, and Nate Pearson; Jackson, Ashton and Brighton Spalding; and Braden and Bryanna Spalding and one great-great grandson Jonathan.
Audrey married Samuel Johanson in 1983, where they resided in Fenton, MO. Sam preceded her in death. She leaves behind her stepchildren Sam Johanson, Lori (Edward) Grimes, and Kathy Garrett. Audrey also is survived by six step-grandchildren Kayla (Nathan) Simpson and Sam Johanson Jr., Caitlin and Jaron Grimes, and the late Timothy (T.J) and Chris Garrett and two step great-grandchildren Cameron Speiser and Sedona Garrett.
Audrey worked in various positions at JC Penney, Aeolian and Gateway Apparel in her younger years. Once retired, Audrey was very active; she loved to tend to her garden, read countless books, and was devoted to her golden retrievers throughout the years. Audrey moved to Friendship Village in Sunset Hills in 2019. She was very sociable and sweet-natured. She loved to befriend people, was well liked, and always a pleasure to be around. She was a welcoming smile at any gathering. We will miss you dearly Mom, Grandma and precious friend.
Visitation at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd. on Monday, April 22, from 12 NOON until funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Interment at Lakewood Park Cemetery.
Dear cousin Dan & David & all of your families I was so privlaged to have your kind & beautiful mother Audrey for my Aunt. I will never forget how she made over me when I was young. I loved staying at her & Uncle John’s home. We always made her famous Rice Krispie treats. I tried to help her with her large puzzles on the floor but I wasn’t much help. Loved going out in the big back yard to see her flowers. She took me shopping & bought me a couple 45 records. I know she will be missed so much. God Bless sweet Aunt Audrey & all your families. Love Mary Rose Bill & our whole family
Thank you so much for the sweet words and we love to hear the stories and memories. Love Dan and Karen and family.
Dan, Karen, and family,
Audrey raised a remarkable son in you, Dan. I’ve told you before you are one in a million. Your mom was always so pleasant and friendly every time I got to see her. What a shining light she was; heaven gained a beautiful soul back with her passing. She will be missed.
Love to you all.
Cyndi, thanks so much for the special words and for your prayers especially in her final days.
David and Dan and Karen,
I was so sorry to hear about your mom. She was a great addition to Nettie Drive back in the day. She was a very sweet lady and I’m sure you’re going to miss her.
Love you guys!
Just now recalling some memories of my step-brother John, I had wondered about Audrey and to my surprise she has just passed away a few days ago!
When growing up I admired Audrey as she was like a role model to me as my mother wasn’t well. Audrey was always so chic like a model. Her house was always neat, clean and orderly. I remember the Cheez Wiz and Ritz crackers snacks she would put out for Danny & Me. The last time I saw her was at Ida’s funeral. God Bless you all. She was truly a special lady.