Kurt Emil Johnson

Kurt Emil Johnson, age 67, of Pine Colorado, passed away in his home on 1/6/2024 following a long and courageous battle with cancer. Throughout his many health struggles he continuously amazed his family, friends and doctors with his unwavering strength and positive outlook. He served as a role model for how to remain grateful and resilient in the face of adversity. 

Kurt was born and raised in rural Dundee, Illinois to Magdaline (Tobler) and Don Johnson. His love for the great outdoors led him to move to Colorado, where he has lived since 1988. He was a toolmaker by trade and had an unmatched work ethic and incredible skill in his chosen field.

Kurt lived a life of passion. Through the years he was an avid skier, sailor, archer, bicyclist and most recently, and perhaps most passionately, an angler. He was able to take his love of fly fishing and work as a guide with Flies and Lies in Deckers. He found great joy in sharing the sport he loved with others and seeing his clients' excitement when they hooked a fish. We know many people will remember his iconic yell of “SET!” when you got a nibble, and it was time to set the hook and land the fish. 

Kurt was a kind and generous man who will be remembered for his boisterous laugh, welcoming smile, and cooking skills. He will be dearly missed, and will live on in many fond memories, and through his daughter with whom he shared so many life lessons and adventures. Kurt was immensely proud of his daughter, Maggie, and thoroughly enjoyed his time with her, especially on the river.  

Kurt was also proud of and grateful for the support he received, and was able to provide to others, through his involvement with Alcoholics Anonymous. Through the years he developed many strong friendships and a spiritual connection with God. 

Kurt was a loving, and much beloved son, brother, friend, husband, and father. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Susan Johnson, daughter Magdaline (Maggie) Johnson, sister Kris Alesi (Bob), brother Tim Johnson (Denise), and numerous extended family and friends.

A celebration of Kurt’s life will be held on 2/17/2024, 11AM, at Evergreen Memorial Park, 26624 N Turkey Creek Rd. Evergreen, CO 80439. Please come as you are, or wear Kurt's favorite attire, a flannel shirt and jeans.  Following the service, you are welcome to stay for food and visiting.  Side dishes or desserts are welcome if you are so inclined.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested a donation be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at give.LLS.org in memory of Kurt Johnson.