Obituary of Ethel Johannesen

Ethel Mae Covenhoven Johannesen  (98)  June 26,1926- January 13, 2025

Ethel (Skip) entered into eternal life on Monday January 13, 2025 at 98 years. She was a lifelong resident of Greene County, and a graduate of Greenville School.  She was the daughter of George B. & Ethel (Barkman) Covenhoven of South Westerlo and sister of Chester Covenhoven. Skip was the wife of John Johannesen for 45 years. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband in 1991. She is survived by their three children: James (Robin) Johannesen, Thomas (Dawn) Johannesen, Debra (Wayne) Hazelton. Ethel was Grandmother “Nanny” to 8 grandchildren: Jeremy Johannesen, Tricia Burns, Jenni (Mike) Bruen, Chelsea Brady, Kara Johannesen, Damon (Kristina) Hazelton, Kristin (Rick) Hardy, John (Emily) Hazelton.  She was also the proud great- grandmother of 13 great-grandchildren and one more due in March.

Skip enjoyed golfing, traveling, bowling, playing cards and dominos. She had a close circle of friends that she held dear. For years Skip and her great friend, Dutchie Preisner traveled the world, visiting China, Alaska, Greece.

Ethel answered a call for help during WWII and worked at the GE in Schenectady for a brief time. She was also employed at Balsam Shade boarding house and Vince Anna’s Restaurant in South Westerlo as a waitress.  She enjoyed running the snack bar at Pine Lake Manor, Greenville. She also worked for many years at Royal Metal Products, Surprise, NY as a wrapper and shipper until she was 90 years old. Throughout her life, Ethel displayed a remarkable resilience and warmth that made a lasting impact on everyone she met.

Skip enjoyed time with her children, grandchildren and great-grands.  She spent most weekends at her daughter Debbie's being entertained by all the children.

The last four years Ethel lived at the Pines of Catskill where she enjoyed bingo and holiday parties with the other residents.  Everyone knew Ethel as she was always out and about daily.

A service will be held on Saturday, May 10, at 10 a.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church of Norton Hill, 5830 State Route 81, Greenville, and a Graveside service will follow at the Greenville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Asbury United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 599, Greenville, NY 12083 would be appreciated.

Condolences may be posted at ajcunninghamfh.com.