Pat Johnson, after living for 84 years, passed away on May 21st, 2024. She will be remembered for her zest for life, support of others, and love of aviation.
All who had the privilege of knowing her and of working closely with her, whether personally or professionally, know that she was always ready to help others and often touched people’s hearts.
A lifelong educator, Pat taught earth science and physics at Capital High School, aerospace workshops for teachers for Carroll College, and various adult education classes. In the course of the years, Pat earned two master’s degrees, one from MSU and the other from Indiana University-Bloomington.
After her retirement from teaching, Pat worked for the Montana Office of Public Instruction administering grants to school districts. When she retired from full-time work, she was in her 54th year in education and 76th year of life.
Pat served on several Helena boards, including the City-County Planning Board, Leadership Helena Steering Committee, and the Helena Transportation Coordinating Committee. She was an officer of the Montana Ninety-Nines, The Montana Pilots Association, the Montana Antique Airplane Association, and several other organizations.
Pat received many awards beginning with Outstanding Young Women of America in 1968. Other awards include the National Crossfield Aerospace Education Teacher of the Year, Montana Candidate for Teacher in Space, and the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award.
An avid reader, pilot, and dancer, Pat is survived by her sister, Wilma Burke, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Cremation has taken place and interment will take place later at Mount Moriah Cemetery in Butte. Donations can be made to Montana PBS, Mercy Ships, The World Food Programme, and Project Preemie. Since relatives are scattered across the country no Celebration of Life is planned.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
When you waken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flights.
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there; I did not die.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Marilyn Alexander says
She was one in a million and my dear friend. We helped each other through thick and thin. I love her poem. I believe she has gone to the other side to explore and direct infinity and beyond.
Merrilee Kick says
Pat was influential in my childhood upbringing. She always had a matter of fact way of speaking and big smile. The only time I remember her complaining was when we had her over for dinner and we were having rabbit, our pet rabbit Prescott! She didn’t think it was funny. I remember her enthusiasm for flying and dancing. She will be missed.
Mary Ellen Earnhardt says
Pat was an amazing mentor and friend. She taught me to enjoy being myself and to be aware of the world around me. I appreciated her love of learning. I will miss our fun times and our conversations. Fly with the eagles my friend
Gail DeBono says
Even though I worked at the district for several years, I didn’t meet Pat until CVS. One day we started talking education and she told me some of her flying background. Wat a wonderful woman. She will be missed.
Cathy Christian Ireland says
I had been trying to find my favorite teacher for a couple of years just to tell her that. She taught me science in 7th or 8th grade at CR Anderson in 1969-71.
She was admired by a lot of her students I’m sure.
Rest in peace and fly high
Shomai Meister says
Ms. Johnson was one my favorite teachers. She allowed me to be a lab assistant and would be very specific with instructions that guaranteed success. She was very kind. I admired her consistent approach to bringing order to a classroom of disorderly 7th and 8th graders. I have such fond memories of her and always will. She had a major impact on my life, all in positive ways.