Johnson, former newspaper owner, remembered for dedication

By Alan Carman
The Imperial Republican
    One of the former owners of The Imperial Republican, Elna Johnson, passed away peacefully, Friday, May 22, 2026 at the Imperial Manor.
    Elna and husband Loral Johnson, purchased the Imperial Republican Newspaper in 1968. They later grew their newspaper family to include The Grant Tribune Sentinel, The Holyoke Enterprise and The Wauneta Breeze, forming Johnson Publications.
    Loral and Elna owned and operated Johnson Publications for 31 years before selling the business to family members in 1999.
    During her years with the newspapers, Elna served as President of the Nebraska Press Association and received the prestigious honor of Master Editor-Publisher Award. She was also recognized as the National Emma McKinney Award winner in 1990.
    Elna was very active in her church and community. She was an active member of the Methodist Church in Imperial since 1954.
    She taught Sunday School and Bible School. She also chaired many local and District Committees.
    In the community, Elna was an active member in the Imperial Community Foundation Fund, the Imperial Library Foundation, Order of the Eastern Star, delivered meals on wheels and even taught swimming lessons.
    Elna was appointed by Governor Charles Thone for a two-year term on the Nebraska Commission on the Status of Women.
    Elna’s contributions to the church and her community will live on as a lasting reminder of her dedication to build and preserve the community.