Keith A. Johnson was born in Polson October 17, 1928 to H. Irving and Ethel Mallory Johnson. He died at Kalispell Regional Hospital surrounded by family on July 10, 2008 after a courageous battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Blanche Shodo Johnson. They were married on a beautiful, snowy Christmas Eve in 1949. Born to this union were four children: Paul (Joan) of Whitefish; Kevin (Jane) and their daughters Kristin and Lisa of Butte; Rod (Cindy) and their sons Erik and Andrew of Polson; Lauren (Pete) Quien of Kalispell and their children Keith Allen (Cara) and their daughters Kyla and Lena of Denver, Nicole (Brian) Piercy and their daughter Sage of Kalispell; Jennifer Quien and her son Oliver of Kalispell. Also surviving him are a sister Kay (Ted) Witham of Polson; sisters-in-law Arlene Johnson of Clarkston, Washington, Edith Connerly and Jo Blackburn of Maple Valley, Washington, brother-in-law Leslie (Elva) Shodo of Denver, Colorado and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was a life-long resident of Polson. His career began at the Security State Bank, which had been established by his paternal grandfather, J.A. Johnson and his partner in 1910. Keith retired after 30 years and became owner and manager of Lake County Abstract Co.

He was Past Exalted Ruler of the Polson Elks, an active member of Polson Jaycees, supporter of Lake County 4-H and Junior Fair and a life-long member of Polson Presbyterian Church. During his tenure on the Polson School Board the properties for Polson High School, Middle School and Cherry Valley Elementary were purchased.

After his retirement, he and Blanche enjoyed their winter homes in Yuma, Arizona and later in Waldport, Oregon. He loved living in Polson and appreciated the beauty that surrounds us here. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and gatherings at the cabin at Dayton, but more than that he treasured the companionship of family and friends. Keith cared deeply about and was cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, sister, extended family and friends. His loss cannot be measured.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 15 at 1:00 pm in the Polson Community Church, 1814 1st Street East, Polson, with Rev. Richard Widerholdt officiating. A reception will follow services in the hall of the church. The family suggests contributions may be made in Keith’s memory to Cheerful Hearts Cancer Support group in Polson, PO Box 688, Polson, MT 59860 or any local charitable organization of their choice. Arrangements and cremation under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory.