James "Jim" W. Johnson

James “Jim” W. Johnson, 73, of Centennial, Colorado, passed away at his home on July 16, 2026.

Jim was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. If you knew Jim, you knew he never met a stranger. In fact, his family often joked that he could make friends with a rock. Whether he was striking up a conversation with someone he had just met or catching up with an old friend, Jim had a way of making people feel welcome. His infectious laugh, warm smile, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Jim was born on December 18, 1952, in Stromsburg, Nebraska, to Ralph and Irene Johnson. He was the second youngest of five sons, joining brothers Paul, Steve, Dave, and Joe. He graduated from Stromsburg High School in 1971 before proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps from 1972 to 1974. During his service, he was stationed in San Diego, California, where he strengthened the close bond he shared with his California cousins.

After returning to Nebraska, Jim earned his associate degree and began his career in the automotive industry. On September 15, 1977, he welcomed his first daughter, Jocelyn, who he loved deeply and was immensely proud of.

While working for Chrysler in Kansas City, Jim met Kathrine Borton, in 1982. They were married on September 15, 1984, and shortly afterward moved to Aurora, Colorado, where they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. Their daughter, Lindsay, was born on April 28, 1989.

Jim spent 27 years with Chrysler, where he was respected for his professionalism, integrity, and most of all, his ability to build lasting relationships. His greatest strength wasn’t just understanding the automotive business, it was understanding people. He genuinely enjoyed getting to know people, and those connections often grew into lifelong friendships.

Photography was one of Jim’s greatest passions. He was the family photographer, always the one behind the camera making sure birthdays, holidays, vacations, and everyday moments were captured. Anyone who knew Jim has probably sat through one of his famous photo slideshows, reliving vacations and celebrations one picture at a time while he shared the stories behind each image. Through his camera, Jim preserved not just photographs, but the history of his family.

In recent years, Jim found another creative outlet in woodworking. He enjoyed transforming weathered fence boards into handcrafted mountains, tables, and other unique pieces that reflected both his creativity and patience. He loved giving his creations to family and friends, knowing they would become part of their homes and lives.

Jim loved talking with people. Whether the conversation was about sports, cars, family history, or simply life’s everyday moments, he was happiest when surrounded by others. Everyone who knew him, had a “Jim” story. He enjoyed traveling, exploring new places, and making memories with the people he loved.

Above all else, Jim loved his family. He was an incredibly proud father to Jocelyn and Lindsay and treasured every moment he spent as Grandpa to Breckin and Delaney Sperling. His family was his greatest accomplishment and his greatest joy.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Johnson; his daughters, Jocelyn Johnson and Lindsay Johnson; his beloved grandchildren, Breckin and Delaney Sperling; his brothers, Paul, Dave, and Joe Johnson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Irene Johnson, and his brother, Steve Johnson.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, friendship, and unconditional love. The memories he captured through his camera, the stories he shared, the friendships he built, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever in our hearts.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Jim to one of the following organizations.

Toys for Tots - In Memory of James W. Johnson

Wounded Worriors Project -In Memory of James W. Johnson

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