DJ Johnston passed away March 4, 2023 at her home surrounded by her loved ones in Boulder, Montana. DJ was born on August 11, 1960 in Huron, South Dakota to AM Johnston and Patricia Carpenter. DJ worked for and retired from the US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. She married the love of her life, Katherine Mahoney in Spokane Washington in May of 2014.
DJ is survived by her wife, Katherine Mahoney, sister Glenda (Dale) Ellerton of McCook, Nebraska, a niece and a nephew, great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Patricia Viola Johnston and AM Johnston and brother, Michael Johnston.
Gravesides services for DJ will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 8th at the Boulder Cemetery in Boulder, Montana. A reception will follow the burial at the Windsor Bar, 201 N. Main Street in Boulder.
Darci says
to all who loved DJ, I am so sorry to hear of DJs passing. I worked with her on the Black Hills National Forest. I considered her a forever friend. DJ would light up the room and would tell it like it was. there was no bullshit in DJ. she was true to all . her spunky personality and her sense of humor were such a joy. the world lost one of the best. I’m grateful that I had the pleasure of knowing DJ. hugs to her family and loved ones❤💔 she left a mark on my heart
Kim Lange says
I worked with/for DJ on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge. She was a supervisor who cared for her employees. I considered her not only a great boss but also a good friend.
She kept the whole office entertained with her great humor and personality.
Katherine, DJ talked highly of you, we knew she loved you.
She will be missed.
Kathy Smith says
What a character DJ was! I had the opportunity to work with DJ on the Beaverhead/Deerlodge from the Dillon Engineering department. Our paths would cross on several projects, meetings and training sessions and I so enjoyed her sense of humor, intelligence and she was just fun to be around. What a gem. I’m so saddened by this news. Thoughts and prayers to DJ’s loved ones.
Bruce Schuelke says
I am so sorry also to hear of DJ’s passing. I went to school and graduated with her in Huron SD and than worked with her on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF out of Butte, MT. Small world to cross paths again in Butte, MT. She had such great attitude and such a character. My face put on a smile everytime I saw her. She left a void when she left the forest. My prayers to the family.
Noelle Meier says
I met DJ while working for the Forest Service in Kentucky/ Tennessee in 2000, where she had come to work for a period, on detail. DJ had previously worked with one of my KY coworkers (while she worked on yet another Forest) and we made a great team over those months together. She was a hard worker, brought great quality to the work, and mentored me and others on the job. As I was from Butte and had my start on the Beaverhead NF, she made me feel connected to the folks and landscapes back home. I loved her personality and humor, and she left a lasting positive impression. Many memories for coworkers around the country, and certainly for those who worked with her here on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF. Sincere condolences to DJ’s loved ones…thanks for sharing her with us!