From Current Lessiter Media Co-Workers…

Amy made team meetings so fun with her witty humor and side comments or stories. I loved how every year she declared August as her birthday month and always made it clear she was to be celebrated more than just on her birthday. She would often joke with me in trying to convince me I needed to have a 4th baby. She always enjoyed seeing my kids running around in the office and said that Pat and I made such cute kids, so she’d just say, “just have another!” in a no-brainer, convincing way. 

Amy had an easy way of connecting with people through her sense of humor and personality. I enjoyed seeing her connect onsite at the International Hoof-Care Summit (IHCS) with our customers and audience. 

Amy will be dearly missed around here.

— Joanne Volkert, Brand Manager 

Amy was part of our Lessiter Media team for 19 of the company’s 44 years (our 5th most tenured staffer) and thus a key to our small-company culture. Multi-talented, she pivoted many times to different roles, wherever she was most needed. 

Professionally, Amy was HIGHLY dedicated to her customers, teammates and the company. She could do it all and she did – purchasing, project management, ad trafficking, editorial (in a technical subject area no less), advertising/exhibit/sponsorship sales, trade show management and more -- and constantly ventured into unfamiliar territories because her many talents were needed. That says just about it all right there. She popularized the concept of “Team work makes the dream work.”

I will never let go of the texts and FB messenger chats with Amy. She had a tremendous — and at times surprising — sense of humor and could dish it out and also take it with the best of ‘em. We both had our favorite subjects to rib each other about, and she boldly commented on my vices. Many of us got mileage out of things like her affections for carnival workers, fears of a toppling water tower, staunch feelings on exactly when it was appropriate to put out Christmas decorations, proper responses to convenience store workers, Australian farrier slang, “things you see at the Fair” and musings about how our extraordinary-slim vice President of Finance, Michael Storts, never had a carb in his life, etc. 

She also indulged my sappy music videos that I only shared with she and my mom — and she provided meaningful comfort when Pam passed, even as she was dealing with her own health struggles. Amy was EVERYONE’S friend  — and will be missed by all. I have many fond memories —and the lasting relationships she built — will remain with us.

— Mike Lessiter, President

Amy was one of my earliest friends at Lessiter Media when I started. We bonded over reality TV (anything from MTV to Bravo to TLC...in fact, Michael Ellis would join in on our Teen Mom talks quite regularly!) and had daily conversations about everything from our families to food to random facts from our past — nothing was off limits. 

When I became a new wife, she told me about the time she threw away dirty dishes after no one would clean up after dinner. When I became a new mom, she told me how Emily needed a vacuum cleaner running in order to be soothed. She always had fun things for the girls when they came to visit, and her U.S. Presidents nesting dolls were a huge hit anytime Emma & Maddie stopped by her office. She also gifted them one of her favorite books that she had read to Emily, “The Jolly Postman.” It was the Christmas version because she knew I do themed readings with them every December. It’s a regular read for us during Christmas!

Among the many things I learned about Amy during our talks were details about her many phobias. These include, but were not limited to:

• A plate of hot fajitas
• Dark windows at nighttime
• Passing semi-trucks on the freeway (I had the pleasure of sitting next to her in a car as two passed on either side of us.. She clung to the Yuengling boxes between us for dear life.)
• Any number of airplane-related fears, etc. 

Speaking of travel, I rode to and from the IHCS with her many times. We had the year of the snow and ice storm, where we were stalled in several traffic backups and didn’t arrive to Cincy until after 7pm. (The look on her face as we passed a tipped over semi during one of the backups is forever etched in my brain.)

We had another year with a snowstorm coming home that had us delayed by a few hours and we pit-stopped at a Mexican restaurant — thankfully no one ordered fajitas. However later in the ride afterward, one of our cohorts got quite gassy from the beans and, well, Amy had some strong feelings about that.

While at the IHCS in Cincinnati I spent many nights after sessions wrapped socializing with Amy. We enjoyed some community moonshine (an unmarked mason jar a farrier would pass around to unsuspecting victims), plenty of wine and laughs in her room before we hit the hay, and, of course, made time for O’Malley’s in the Alley. 

Amy is someone very dear to me. She was there through many big milestones in my life — being a new college graduate, getting married, having my children — and she took such a vested interest every step of the way. Our inside jokes still make me belly laugh when I think of them. 

I’ll miss her deeply, but am so thankful to have her impact pressed into my heart and mind for the rest of my life.

— Michelle Drewek, Digital Media Manager

The lung cancer diagnosis was made about 3 years ago. When the news came, the message was clear — Amy Johnson was not a smoker.

It was important to her that everyone knew, understood and acknowledged she did not smoke. Instructions quickly followed. Amy wanted the word spread far and wide.

“Tell everyone — I’m not a smoker,” she insisted.

Amy filled a variety of roles at Lessiter Media and American Farriers Journal. She was witty, reliable, accountable and her work ethic was second to none. We soon learned she was tough, in the best possible use of the word.

During her 3-year battle, Amy didn’t allow room for even a hint that she wasn’t carrying out her work, let alone slacking in any way. She never said no to a task, and great offense was taken even when the slightest impression of deference was given to her condition.

Chemo? Just another opportunity to get work done. There were no sick days, even when the effects of treatment and illness were taking their toll. Amy continued working until she no longer could. She left us about a week later.

She remained witty, reliable, tough — and a non-smoker. 

— Jeff Cota, American Farriers Journal Editor

Most of my memories with Amy come from when I was younger at the old office building and always talking with her while I helped set-up bowling pins for the spirit week bowling that was held right outside her office.

What I remember most was that Amy was always friendly and talkative to me at all ages.

— Drew Lessiter, Event Manager

“Teamwork Makes the Dream Work.” I will never hear this phrase without thinking about Amy introducing it to us here at LM many years ago for our IHCS event. I don’t recall exactly why this came out, but it became our motto at the event that year. If I recall correctly, it really did make everyone think before doing. It may have been one of the best years of our team working together, all in the same direction.  

— Bree Greenawalt, Director of Data, Insights & Circulation

It’s difficult to pick out just one thing about Amy. To me, she was like a work “big sister.” There were so many fun late nights at the summit or off the cuff discussions in her office. 

But more recently, Amy was one of the few people I confided in about my wife and me trying to adopt a child. She was so excited for us and was always ready for an update, even if it was something mundane like me just griping about all the paper-work. And she always said, ”I know it will work out for you.” She was so encouraging when we were matched with an opportunity. 

I am just so glad she was able to be at our last Lessiter Media Aspire meeting, so we could briefly talk face-to-face when I was able to show her a photos of our brand-new little girl. 

I can’t claim to have known Amy really well as her co-worker. What I was lucky enough to know was that she was a caring person with a wonderful wit. She is dearly missed.

— Lewis Horn, Lead Print Designer

I met Amy roughly 26 years ago when I joined the sales team at Kalmbach Publishing and she was part of the company classified ad sales team. She was pregnant with Emily at the time and upon meeting her, in fairly typical Amy self-deprecating fashion, she loudly declared, “I’m pregnant, I’m not always this big!”  Being of similar age – she would certainly note right now that I’m MUCH older – and also entering parenthood at the same time, we became pretty fast friends while sharing the bumpy road and battle scars of first-time parenting. 

We had many good times at Kalmbach, but one of the highlights is the legendary “Taco Water” incident that included Amy. Some way past its prime taco bar dishes were soaking in a sink and there was a $20 wager to see who consume some of the soaking bits of forsaken taco meat. Suffice to say Amy “won” the $20. She earned it!

She had an incredibly quick wit that was often dripping with sarcasm and snark. but beneath it all, Amy was one of the more caring, sensitive people I’ve ever known and a friend that I will dearly miss.

— Michael Ellis, Director of Sales for American Farriers Journal & Rural Lifestyle Dealer

Thinking back on my (numerous) fond memories with Amy, I find it incredibly difficult to choose one to encapsulate what she meant to me as a friend and colleague. When I first met Amy, I knew right away that we’d get along. She was the type of person who leaves an immediate impression. Her bone-dry humor, frequent life advice and work tips kept me standing in her office door more afternoons than not. 

During my first few months at American Farriers Journal, she took me under her wing, helping me navigate the farrier community and feel at ease during clinics (Amy thought I was too stressed and gifted me a worry stone). 

One of my favorite memories of Amy is when we drove down to the Anvil Brand winter clinic together. She had a captivating way of telling stories that made me laugh when I probably shouldn’t have. And it made me appreciate her perspective on life. No matter how tough things got, she could always find a bright spot to focus on — her next vacation, her family or the stray cats she fed and attempted to house in her backyard. She worried intensely about their well-being and, upon request, would send me blurry photos from a distance. Amy cared deeply about many people and animals, and I’m lucky to have been on her radar. 

— Maclaren Krueger, American Farriers Journal Assistant Editor

Memories From Previous Lessiter Media Co-Workers…

Amy Johnson was a breath of fresh air at Lessiter Media. From her first days at the company, her sense of humor and quick wit made every day a little brighter.

We worked together for nine years and during that time, Amy was always willing to help with any project or take on any task, even under the tightest of deadlines. 

She had an amazing ability to uncover the humor in even the most trying situations.  After one particularly grueling week trying to get AFJ to the printer on time, Amy came into my office and announced that she was fairly confident that this was how the contestants on “Survivor” must feel.

Amy also shared many stories of her life. She was so proud of her daughter, Emily, and worried that she wasn’t a “perfect” mother. Then she got into wondering how Carol Brady of the earlier TV hit, “The Brady Bunch” could handle 6 kids while she was so busy with just one.

We celebrated her marriage to Mike with a company-wide luncheon and wedding cake. Amy told me how happy she was to marry Mike, but had wondered why he hadn’t asked her out earlier! She just made me laugh all the time as her delivery was always on point.

Amy will be missed by everyone who knew her. She touched us all in different ways and I am so thankful I was able to share our both laughter and tears during our time at LM.

— Alice Musser, former American Farriers Journal Advertising Director & International Hoof-Care Summit Trade Show Manager

Amy was such a good person and a teammate that always was there when needed. Safe home Amy. May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

— Pat Tearney, former Managing Editor of American Farriers Journal

 I couldn’t help it. Nearly every time I saw Amy I would sing, “Amy what you gonna do?” And every time she would reply, “Pure Prairie League!” I think it was my way of saying, “Hi. How you doing” and it was her way of saying, “I’m good!” 

She liked the Rolling Stones and I preferred the Beatles. At the same time, she told me one of her favorite concerts was Paul McCartney and Wings Over America. Mine was Simon & Garfunkel and Gordon Lightfoot.

She was always happy. I was mostly grumpy. 

When we worked on production schedules, I pushed hard for what I thought was best for my magazines and Amy would do her best to accommodate. We usually ended up compromising. I discovered her self-deprecating humor and sweetness were her major weapons and I had no defense against them.

From time to time before she married Mike, she would share some things she was going through. I mostly just listened. That’s all she wanted. With Mike, she found her listening partner for life. I’m really glad she did.

— Dave Kanicki, former Managing Editor of Farm Equipment

I’m so sorry for everyone’s loss. This is heartbreaking.  

— Tory Terrill, former Marketing Programs Coordinator

So sorry to hear this. Amy was a refreshing warm ray of sunshine just when you needed it.

— Brian Lueck, former Circulation Manager

 How sad. A wonderful person!

— Lynn Marcinkowski Woolf, former Managing Editor of Rural Lifestyle Dealer

Amy will be loved and missed forever. 

— Sarah McQuin, former American Farriers Journal Sales Manager

Absolutely heartbreaking. Amy was a fabulous co-worker and a wonderful person.

— Laura Vietmeyer, former Digital Content Specialist

I am so deeply sorry to hear this. When I was an intern at AFJ years ago, I always enjoyed chatting (and laughing!) with Amy. She and Sarah McQuinn made sure I felt fully welcome. Thinking today of her loved ones and the Lessiter Media team.

— Linda Braus, former American Farriers Journal intern

I am so sorry to hear of this. She was a great person to work with.

— Stephanie Huss

Email Messages From Farrier Industry Members and Others…

A great loss. Amy was not only an amazing person, but a consummate professional to work with. Prayers for her family.

— Frank Dugan, a farrier industry supplier with Glue-U adhesives

Oh my gosh I’m so sorry to hear this. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord. I remember her enthusiasm, smile and “can-do” assertive attitude.

— Dean Moshier, Ohio farrier 

I’m so very sorry. Heartbreaking.

— Beth Pierson Ratway

I loved working with Amy. Such a loss of a wonderful lady.

— Bob Smith, California farrier & Pacific Coast Horseshoeing School owner

I am deeply saddened to hear of Amy’s passing. I will always remember her warmth, teasing, professionalism and the genuine care she brought to her work and to those around her. 

She faced her battle with such strength and grace, and she will be greatly missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and AFJ colleagues.

— Esco Buff, Florida & New York farrier

She was awesome and I always loved seeing. She will be greatly missed. 

— Travis Vern Powell, Illinois farrier

Oh no, this is such sad news, sending prayers

— Jennifer DePollo Horn, Michigan farrier

That is just so sad! She was always so helpful and pleasant. Sincere condolences to her family and her work family.

— Allie Hayes, Massachusetts farrier & former owner of Horse Sense Hoof Models.

So very sad. My condolences to the Lessiter Media staff and her family.

— Rick Lattimer

She will be missed. She was always such a wonderful contact and was willing to help every time I called. Prayers for her family.

—Chris Gregory, Missouri farrier & owner of the Heartland Horseshoeing School

Rest in peace, Amy, your strength inspired us all. 

—Joe Johnson,Texas farrier

Oh dear, so sorry to hear this. My condolences to her family and all of you at AFJ. Amy was amazing to work with.

— Marguerite Paige, former Mustad staffer

Praying for all she left behind. So sad.

— Martin Kenny, South Carolina farrier

Rest in peace, Amy.

— Samuel Mckee, Florida farrier & supplier 

Sorry to hear this sad news. Peace and prayers be with the family and friends. 

— Harry Serio, Maryland farrier

Very sorry, condolences to the family.

— Empire State Farrier’s Association

Condolences to her family and co-workers, she was a wonderful person

— Mike Bagley, Ohio farrier

Oh how sad. Amy was always so cheerful and enthusiastic at the Summit. What a wonderful person. My prayers are with you and her family.

— Amy Rucker, Missouri equine veterinarian

I’m so sorry to hear this. Amy was truly amazing to work with and will be deeply missed going forward at the International Hoof-Care Summit.

—Derek Poupard, Florida farrier & supplier

Rest in peace, Amy.

— Anton Ervin

My condolences for your loss!

— Don Bryant, Michigan farrier

So very sorry to hear this. Condolences.

— Sara Wollaston-Hayden

My condolences. Having lost my mother the same morning a week ago, I can truly empathize with what family and friends are going through. I will keep all in my prayers.

— Andrew Dean, Colorado farrier

Sad to hear this.

— Lester Yoder, Ohio farrier

So sorry to hear. My condolences and prayers for the family.

— Mark Male, Florida farrier

Oh no—so terribly sorry to hear this news. Sending prayers to her family, colleagues and loved ones. 

— Martha Jones, executive director of the American Farriers Association 

Prayers for her family. Amy will be cherished and greatly missed! 

— Tobias Ellis, Illinois farrier

Such a sweet person, she will be missed!

— Randy Hill, Ohio farrier

Oh my gosh, I am shocked. My deepest condolences to her family and friends. Especially to the AFJ family. 

— Martin Zimmer, German farrier

We all will miss Amy. Condolences to her family.

— David Farley, Florida farrier

So sorry to hear that. May she rest in peace and my condolences to her family and friends.

— Martina Neidhart, British veterinarian

So very sorry to hear.

— Pancho Willoughby, Indiana blacksmith

Condolences to the family.

— SB Fairweather

Very sorry for your loss.

— Jason Usry, Virginia farrier 

Deepest condolences and prayers for her family and friends.

— Jill Creech, Indiana farrier

Sending my deepest condolences to Amy’s friends and family.

— Steffi Kersten, a regular International Hoof-Care Summit who shoes in Mexico

Condolences.

— Josh Ramsey

Amy was such a wonderful person and a joy to partner with. Sending love and strength to her family and loved ones! She will be missed!

— Jessica Williams, formerly from Vettec

Such a shame. So young. 

— Mark Rikard

Note Emailed to Mike Lessiter…

Received a text tonight from an old high school friend, Angelique, who didn’t know Amy personally, but shares a comment from a mutual friend that was close to her. Amy must have shared with that mutual friend how much her “LM family” meant to her …  

“Hey Mike. I saw your post about your colleague who passed away. I also happened to hear from a friend of mine that the woman’s employer was very kind and generous during a difficult period in their family’s life. I didn’t realize what she was talking about until later, but I made the connection. Very kind of you and wonderful that you provide that kind of support to your team.”

And Finally … Welcome to the Amy Johnson Memorial Mini-Golf Tournament … (Yes, We’re Going to Do It)

Drew Lessiter was joking (I think) about bringing back the in-office gold or bowling traditions from when we were located in the old digs. (Some of our old-timers may remember the 6-year-old’s square-up with Amy’s daughter Emily), but I think he might be on to something ...

The rules called for Lessiter Media staffers setting up holes in their office and making a “fun day” out of it once a year. Our staff came with some very creative and challenging mini-golf challenges. There are memories related to Amy and this idea, which she might have described as equally good and bad (like fishing your ball out of hotdogs sitting in pistachio pudding...) 

We already have many ideas circulating, all of which are GREAT connections to Amy and would forever commemorate her in the LM tradition.

Read more: "Our Tribute to Amy Johnson, an Amazing Co-Worker"