Obituary of Kurtis Bradley Johnson

May 26th,1977- July 30th, 2020

 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of a beloved husband, dad, son, brother, uncle, friend, and sensei, Kurtis Bradley Johnson, at the age of 43.

 

Kurtis was born on May 26th, 1977, to Greg and Betty Johnson in Duncan, B.C.  They lived briefly in Shawnigan Lake, B.C., and at the age of three his family moved to Cranbrook, B.C., where he spent the remainder of his childhood and adolescence. Kurtis graduated from Mount Baker Secondary school in 1996. 

 

The boy with the mischievous smile and sparkle in his eye was naturally athletic and quick to pick up any sport. Kurtis excelled in judo and competed all over Canada and down into the USA, winning a bronze medal in the Canadian National Championships at age fifteen.

 

Kurtis met his wife, Angela, in 1997 at the College of the Rockies where they both attended school before moving to Kamloops to study at the University. They were married in 2003 and moved to Edmonton where they had their two beautiful children, Kayla and Kohen, whom he loved more than anything. Nothing made him prouder than sharing in the joy of their accomplishments.

 

Never satisfied with anything mediocre, Kurtis always gave 100% of himself, determined and committed to any goal that he set. This was the approach that he took with everything from work, to sport, to family. He had an amazing heart and was always willing to help, even if it meant putting himself in harm's way. Kurtis reached out to help those who were struggling, be it a colleague or employee at work, a child who lacks confidence in judo, or children trapped in a burning building.

 

Kurtis was employed as a senior project manager for the Government of Alberta overseeing huge ventures for the city of Edmonton and surrounding areas. He had a passion and intensity for life that was surpassed by none. His energy made him larger than life and people naturally gravitated towards him. He was always curious, always learning, asking questions, and trying to better himself. He had a desire to explore and together with Angela he enjoyed an African safari, visited the slopes of Machu Picchu, and befriended ancient sea turtles in the Galapagos. As their family grew, he and Angela were accompanied by their children to the shores of Mexico and San Diego, they enjoyed the thrills of Disney World and Disney Land, and explored the jungles of Costa Rica.

 

An active member of the Tokugawa Judo Club in Edmonton, Kurtis received his black belt (Shodan) in 2018. An inspirational sensei, Kurtis was proud to watch as Kohen and Kayla followed in his footsteps, competing in judo matches across Alberta and other parts of Canada. He endeavored to instill in his children that it was not always about winning, it was, however, always about effort.

 

Kurtis leaves behind his beautiful wife, Angela Johnson (Cartwright), their two children; Kayla and Kohen Johnson, his mother Betty Johnson, father Greg Johnson, his sister Kelly Andersson and many nieces, nephews and extended family. 

 

We would like to thank the Kimberley swift water rescue team, the Columbia Valley Search and Rescue teams, as well as the Columbia Valley RCMP for their tremendous efforts. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the many other volunteer organizations, our communities, our friends, and our families for all of their support during this difficult time. We hope to bring to light the amazing commitment and caring of individuals who volunteer for Search and Rescue missions, risking their lives in service of others.

 

Due to Covid restrictions we held a beautiful memorial with immediate family on the river's edge.  As there are undoubtedly many who would like to show their respect to Kurtis, a celebration of life will take place in late spring or summer of 2021.

 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation on behalf of the deceased to the family’s go fund me page, GOFUNDME - Kurtis Johnson AND please consider donating to the wonderful Search and Rescue teams in our area.

 

“There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they are gone their light remains”

 

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com