Glenden Fordice Johnson

Glenden Fordice Johnson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and valued friend, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2024, at the remarkable age of 97. He passed into eternity with his daughter holding his hand. 

Glen lived a life characterized by love of family, faith, and humor. Born on June 24, 1926, at home on a small farm in Wood River, WI. Glenden was the youngest of six children. He grew up during the Great Depression, an experience that instilled in him resilience and a strong work ethic. After graduating from Orlando High School in 1944, he enlisted in a United States Navy officer training program in Coral Gables, Florida. His unit was later transferred to Miami University, in Oxford, Ohio. The war ended just as he was starting his deployment. Glen was proud to have volunteered and grateful for his experiences in the Navy.

Following his honorable discharge, Glen finished his college education using the G.I. Bill at Miami University in 1948 with a B.A. in Geology. He also pursued post-graduate studies at Pennsylvania State University. It was during his college years that he met the love of his life, Mary Ilene (Tommie) Davidson. They were married in 1949, a partnership that would last for 72 loving years until her passing in 2021.

Glen’s 33-year career as a geologist began with Magnolia Petroleum Company (which eventually became Exxon/Mobil), a career that took him and his family across six states and Alberta, Canada as his career rose. He traveled extensively on business trips to Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. He retired in 1981 as superintendent for exploration for the company. 

He also served his family and communities as a Sunday School teacher, and Boy Scout and Explorer Scout leader. Family travel included trips throughout the US as well as to Europe, Scandinavia, New Zealand and Mexico. 

Upon his early retirement, Glen and Tommie purchased a 130-acre Tennessee farm on the border with Kentucky where they raised a small herd of cattle, farmed, spent time with Tommie’s family in the area, made new friends, and created a wonderful destination for family vacations and memories.

In his later years, when Tommie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Glen took loving care of her, allowing her to stay at home until the end of her days. Together, when possible, they enjoyed the beauty of Montana and visiting with family. It was also during this time that Glen’s writing gift hit full stride, submitting opinion pieces for the Bozeman Chronicle, and writing poems, stories and essays for his family. His sharp wit, wisdom, and kind demeanor made him a cherished friend to many.

Glen was preceded in death by his wife Mary Ilene, parents Joseph Nathaniel Johnson and Francis Marie Dahlstrom Johnson, and his siblings Carroll Wesley, Millard Conwell, Morris Maynard, Helen Florine Curtis, Paul Clarence, and Laura Marie.

Glen is survived by his three children: David, Larry, and Susan; their spouses: Linda, Nancy and Larry; his five grandchildren: Glendon, Matthew, Katie, Abby, and Nick; and four great grandchildren: Ellady, Hayden, Sayla and Oluwaremi. He is also remembered fondly by a large extended family and countless friends. His life was a testament to the values of faith in God, love of family, hard work, integrity, and love.

A celebration of his life and family graveside service were held in Bozeman. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Thrive, a Bozeman based family support organization.

Glen’s legacy continues to inspire all who knew him. His memory will be cherished, and he will be deeply missed.