Durell Duane Johnson

1942 - 2024

Durell Duane Johnson, 82, peacefully passed away in his home in the Foothills of Yuma, Arizona on September 29th, 2024.

Durell was born in River Falls, Wisconsin on May 11th, 1942 to Glenn and Lorraine Johnson. At the age of 4, the family moved to Montana. He grew up on the Huidekoper Ranch north of Big Timber. When Durell was 18, he decided to join the Army. He served one year in Germany during the Vietnam War performing his job in Air Frame Repair. After returning home he moved to Washington, where he took a job with Boeing Airlines.

About this time, Durell married the love of his life, Shirley Kjarmo. Their marriage took place in St. Mary's, Idaho. They just celebrated their 58th Wedding Anniversary in March. Shirley and Durell were blessed with three boys, Michael Glenn (1967), Darren Durell(1969), and Curran Emil(1979).

In 1970, Durell and Shirley loaded their belongings and moved back to Montana. He took a hired-hand position working for Sid Fraser west of Reed Point. In 1971, they moved to Big Timber. He started a TV repair business with Don Miller. It was located in the building where the theater is now. In 1975, Durell became the custodian for the Grade School. He worked there for 30 years before retiring.

Durell was a jack of all trades. There were so many things he could do! He was good at ranch work, repairing TVs and other electronics, wood working, electrical wiring, and plumbing. His experience and knowledge allowed him to do a lot of maintenance projects for the Grade School, and Civic Center. Three major undertakings were the wiring of the sound systems for the Grade school gym, the Civic Center, and the lighting for the Grade school stage. This allowed for wonderful performances through the years. He also ran the sound system and video recorder for these performances and other public events such as, weddings, funerals, government presentations, and musical events. Durell was also the chief instructor for bow hunter safety for almost 25 years. He taught the safe and correct way for archery hunting.

Throughout his life Durell enjoyed spending time with his family camping, hunting, fishing, putting puzzles together, playing cards, and dancing. He especially enjoyed teaching others.

Durell had a big heart and we are so thankful for the many years we had with him. Durell was always intentional about holding on tight in a hug. You never knew when he was going to let go. It reminded us that no matter your age or where you are, that our father's love runs deep and never lets go, much like our heavenly Father's love. Durell is survived by his wife Shirley, his sons Michael (Bobette), Darren (Carolyn), and Curran (Heidi), siblings Armand, Bruce (Pat), Bryan (Debbie), Sherm, Kirk (Debbie), Char and Eileen; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and other relatives and friends. Durell was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn Johnson and Lorraine Schuster, and brother Brian Johnson.

There will be a graveside service celebrating Durell's life on June 27th, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Mountain View Cemetery in Big Timber, Montana. There will be a luncheon following at the Big Timber Evangelical Church.

To leave condolences for the family please visit www.stenbergfuneralhome.com