Timothy Johnson

Timothy Francis Johnson passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2009. He was born September 1, l950 to Joseph Harvey Johnson and Mary Smith Johnson in Utica, New York. Tim grew up in the Adirondack region of New York loving the outdoors, hunting, fishing and hiking. His work career spanned a wide range of talents including teaching disabled children and adults, guiding flyfishing trips in his much-loved wooden driftboat, guiding bird-hunting trips, and working in sales. Tim graduated from the Rhode Island School of Photography and had his own studio in Herkimer, NY before moving to Montana 15 years ago. He loved his Montana and continued his youthful enthusiasm for the outdoors. Tim served 2 tours of duty in Vietnam where he worked as a helicopter mechanic. Dog Training became a big part of Tim's life. He belonged to the Gallatin Valley Sporting Clays group where he volunteered and spent much time on the course perfecting his shooting. With well-trained dogs and good shooting he always managed to fill the freezer. Tim was also a gourmet cook especially enjoying game dishes. Friends shared many meals including favorites like Lemon Pheasant and Burgundy Bambi. He never mastered the art of small pots of soup. He cooked for an army and often distributed the excess around the neighborhood. He is survived by his wife, Alison Dowd, her daughter and son-in-law Meaghan and Sean Cavanaugh and grandsons Eoin and Wyatt of Danbury, CT. He is also survived by his brother, Bud (Gloria) Johnson of Venice, FL, brother Dan (Terri) Johnson of Albany, NY, sister Carol (Dennis Morgan) Bell of Frankfort, NY, and many nieces and nephews. Black labs Emma and Sarah will also miss their Dad and hunting partner. Preceding him in death were his sister Mary Lee Hiney and his parents. A memorial service will be planned for this summer to celebrate Tim's life. Donations in Tim's name may be made to Gallatin Valley Sporting Clays Youth Program, P.O. Box 3483, Bozeman, MT 59772 or to a charity of one's choice.