Loren Thomas Johnson, 79

Loren Thomas Johnson was born Dec. 7, 1943 in Kalispell.

This kind and generous man combined a quiet strength, through good times and bad, with wit and loyalty. Despite the progressive challenges and agony of Parkinson’s disease, Loren remained an engaging and caring man. He died Sept. 27, 2023 from complications of Parkinson’s, surrounded by loved ones at Legacy Retirement Village in Salt Lake City.

The written word was Loren’s first love - especially a good double entendre - and he shared it enthusiastically through book clubs, Shakespeare festivals and his classes. Author Willa Cather held a special place in his devotion.

Loren’s second love was travel, and he proved an attentive paramour. Favorite destinations usually included Europe, but his passport was well used around the globe. If you were lucky enough to join him, the experience would always be “educational.” Post retirement he lived briefly in La Junta Colorado and Klamath Falls, Ore. – to be near the hiking wonders of our national parks.

He expanded so many lives as our beloved brother, uncle, cousin, neighbor,

teacher, companion and friend. The oldest of three sons born to Ruth and Floyd Johnson in Kalispell, Loren graduated from Flathead High School in 1962, studied at Morningside College in Sioux City, IA, and received degrees from Eastern Washington University (BA) and Westminster College (MA). Kearns High School served as his educational home for 35 years, where thousands of students broadened their minds under his tough English and Advanced Placement classes, and he earned recognition as Utah Teacher of the Year.

In his own words, “Even before I started kindergarten, I began ‘teaching’ my younger brother. I will always have concepts to learn, ideas to share, skills to master and lives to touch.” He kept true to his word. Each life task, volunteer role, and casual exchange with family, friends, coworkers and care givers was touched with love and joy.

Many knew Loren through his years working alongside spouse, Paul Larsen, at the Oaken Bucket restaurant in Granger. They took pride in providing gracious hospitality, fine cuisine and joyful friendships. Others knew him from one of his other second jobs which a lifetime of teaching often requires. Loren’s generosity continues with bequests to Glacier National Park Fund, Utah Shakespearean Festival, and The Willa Catha Pioneer Memorial and Education Foundation.

Predeceased by his parents; and spouse, Paul; he is survived by brother Mark (Trish) Johnson of Highland Ranch, Colo., and their children, Christine (Andy), Matt (Sarabeth); brother, Herb (Pam) Johnson of Vancouver, Wash., and their children Jamie, Katie; numerous friends, neighbors, co-workers, students, and admirers.

Special thanks and blessings to the staff at Legacy Village and Renew Hospice. Please join us in a celebration of life on Loren’s 80th birthday, 2-4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 at Legacy Village of Sugar House.

“Nothing is so strong as gentleness and nothing is so gentle as real strength,” St. Francis de Sales.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Please visit www.Starksfuneral.com to share photos and memories with Loren’s family.