Vance Johnson, 51 of Helena passed away Friday, April 15, 2011 in Faribault County, MN as a result of a motor vehicle crash.
Vance Alan Johnson was born May 22, 1959 in Miles City, MT the son of Llewell and Betty (Hufford) Johnson. He grew up and attended school in Baker, MT, enrolling in ROTC and graduating in 1977. Vance attended Montana State University in Bozeman, MT graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering and technology, which began his career in the Air Force. Vance and Kathy Wheeler were united in marriage in Bozeman and lived in Oklahoma and Ohio, while serving in the Air Force. To this union two children were born, Terri Elizabeth and Alan Richard. Vance had obtained the rank of Captain in the Air force and had served doing research and testing on the different materials used in the making of the planes and the space shuttle. Due to his disability and leaving the Air Force, the family returned to Montana and settled in Helena. Kathy and Vance later divorced. Terri and Alan were an important part of his life and he enjoyed sharing in their lives and interests, which included the sports of bowling and tennis. He helped the area farmers in Helena and Great Falls during seeding and harvest season along with traveling back to Baker to help the folks on the farm.
He was active in the bowling community and took the kids and their bowling teams all over the states on tournaments and other outings. Vance and the kids traveled throughout the states enjoying the sites and the history of our country. Vance enjoyed white water rafting, all types of dancing and socializing with his friends and he was always up for a friendly game of pinochle.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Llewell Sr. and Theresa Johnson and John Pearl and Susan Hufford.
Vance is survived by his daughter, Terri Elizabeth Johnson and son, Alan Richard Johnson both of Helena, MT, parents; Llewell and Betty Johnson, Baker, MT; brothers, Keith and Craig Johnson , Baker, MT,; sisters, Vicki Johnson, Bozeman, MT, Janice Johnson, Jefferson, LA, and Linda (Dean) Hepperle, Dickinson, ND, numerous nieces and nephews; special friends, Robert and Lupie Thornson, Stevensville, MT and Shayne Isaacson, Helena, MT, to mention a few.
Viewing hours will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 27th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 28th at Last Chance Chapel at Birdseye. Burial with military honors will follow at Montana State Veterans Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.aswfuneralhome.com.
Debbie Eggebraaten says
Vance, you will be missed so very much.
Randy Routzahn says
Teri, we are so sorry about your loss. Lisa, Tanner and I are praying for you daily. My God Bless you and Alan. Randy
Sharon Britton says
A nice young man has left our midst. He was always ready to teach one something new, offer advice and be helpful. Working with him at InfoData taught me many new skills. I appreciated the chance to be a family friend . My sincere condolences to the whole family and especially dear ones, Vicki and Terry (sister and daughter)and of course to his parents. Much love and many prayers for all of you. Sharon
Shayne says
Vance touched many people throughout his life, he was always there for someone who needed help. Always had a smile to offer, a hug to give and a heart as big as Montana. He loved Montana and traveled many miles to see and soak up any and all things Montana. Unfortunately my time with Vance was cut short,he was my life and my future. He showed me so much and taught me a lot. He shared his family with me and was very proud of his kids, Terri and Alan. I feel very blessed to have had Vance and his family in my life. Lots of love and many thoughts and prayers go out to friends and family.
Stacey Martin says
Terry I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Tami Tjaden says
Terri~
I am so sorry for your loss, my heart ached for you when I heard. I know how close you were to your Dad….My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family during this difficult time, you are such a beautiful soul, stay strong!
Love,
Tami
Tammy & Kati Humphries says
Terri,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts and thoughts are with you and Alan. We will continue to pray for you daily. Hang in there.
Tammy & Kati Humphries