Dr. Marcus Alan Johnson

Dr. Marcus Alan Johnson, 86, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, physician, and friend, passed away on June 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 7, 1937, to Marvin and Helen Johnson of Plainview, Nebraska. He was the eldest of three children.

Growing up, Marc enjoyed boating, waterskiing, camping, skiing, and fishing. He also had a passion for horses and riding. Some of his fondest memories being backcountry trips to the Bob Marshall Wilderness near Choteau, Montana. He had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed traveling.

Marc attended Carlton College and followed in his father's footsteps into the medical profession, graduating from the University of Nebraska Medical School in 1963. In 1962, he married Miriam Volk, also of Plainview, and they were blessed with three children: Monica Schulz, Mike Johnson, and Marci Smith. Marc later married Mary Ellen Longin in 1994, expanding his family and finding joy in all of his children and grandchildren.

After medical school, Marc completed residencies in Family Practice and General Surgery in San Bernardino, California, from 1963 to 1967. He then served with dedication at Crow Agency for the Indian Health Service before settling in Choteau, Montana, where he practiced privately and alternated as Chief of Staff at Teton Medical Center from 1969 to 1988. In 1988, Marc moved to Great Falls, Montana, continuing to serve patients from both Teton and Cascade County until his retirement at age 70 in 2007. Even after he moved to Great Falls, he continued to serve as Medical Director of the Teton Nursing Home until 2015.

Throughout his career, Marc was deeply involved in professional organizations and contributed prolific community service. He was a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians for over 50 years including a term as President of the Academy. His service also included 40 years (1974 to 2014) as a member Montana Medical Association for whom he also served a presidency term. He dedicated many years to the Federal Aviation Administration as Medical Examiner (1978 to 2008) and 21 years (1991-2012) to the Board of Health for Cascade County Health Department.

Marc's passion for medicine was evident in the evidence-based care he provided, delivering over 2000 babies, and performing surgeries over his 46-year career. His longtime nurse in Choteau, Shirley, recalled, “Dr. J was one of the most generous Drs to his patients. Sometimes he would say, ‘Let’s not charge them for this visit because they are having a rough time.” He cherished the  long-term relationships with patients and their families, deeply valuing the trust and loyalty they placed in him.

Marc and Mary Ellen enjoyed 30 years of happiness and adventure, especially with family. They relished taking in grandchildren’s activities and engaging in family festivities. They loved the 4 th of July in Choteau and making time for adventures – visiting family in Alaska, relaxing beachside at their timeshare in Cabo, rafting the Salmon River, sailing through the British Virgin Islands, and cruising to the Panama Canal. Their years together overflow with wonderful memories.

Marc was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Helen Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ellen, his son Mike Johnson of Choteau, and his daughters and their families Monica (Stacy) Schulz, Rebecca and Andrew, of Bend, OR, and Marci (Derek) Smith, Logan, Landon, and Gracie of Laramie, WY and his step-children, Michelle (Mac) Johnson, Kasey, Adam, Kendall and Alex, of Helena, Tony (Colette) Longin, Olivia, Amelia, Gabe and Rafe, of Great Falls, and Nick (Brenda) Longin, Lily and Max, of Billings. He is also survived by his brother Bruce (Carolyn) Johnson, and sister Gretchen (Bruce) Keeler and their children. He is also survived by long time friend Dave Kostas.

A pillar of several Montana communities, Marc’s legacy is one of selflessness, humility, and compassion for others. As physician and loving friend, father, and husband, he touched the lives of many and made the world a better place by always being there for those in need. Marc’s spirit of adventure, grit, and kindness endure in those who were blessed to know and learn from him.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Benefis Hospice for their compassionate care and support during Marc's final year.

A celebration of Marc's life will be held on Friday, Aug 2, 2024 at 11:00 at Redeemer Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Benefis Peace Hospice/Great Falls, Redeemer Lutheran Church, Great Falls, or Montana Talking Book Library PO Box 201800, Helena Montana, in Marc's memory.

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