Mark Johnson

Mark Johnson, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away peacefully at the age of 73. Born on October 31, 1952, in Brockton, Massachusetts, Mark grew up in Moon Township, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He and his brother Bruce were often found exploring the surrounding woods—a childhood filled with curiosity and a deep connection to nature. One day, he brought home a baby rabbit he found, perhaps the beginning of his lifelong love of animals.

Mark's love for the outdoors was further nurtured during summers spent in Wentworth, Wisconsin, on his Scandinavian grandparents’ farm. There, he helped raise chickens, gathered wild strawberries for pancakes with whipped cream, and drank cool spring water from the well house. These formative experiences, sometimes shared with his cousin Steve, left a lasting impression on his heart.

In 1971, Mark graduated from Moon High School, where he swam long-distance events, including the 1600-meter freestyle. He briefly attended Marietta College before deciding to pursue a different path. In 1972, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and joined the 101st Airborne Division, where he discovered the thrill of parachuting and the deep camaraderie of military service. His lifelong friend, Mark Nixon, recalled that one of Mark’s greatest passions was being a paratrooper. He was a proud believer in veterans and their service to the country.

In 1973, after completing boot camp, Mark married his high school prom date, Debbie Abodaca-Oehm. They lived in Clarksville, Tennessee, while he was stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Following his military service, the couple relocated to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where Mark had the special privilege of exploring the Acoma Pueblo reservation with Debbie’s grandfather, Carlos. These were cherished days of riding horses and camping under the stars. Mark fell in love with the Southwest and studied criminology at the University of New Mexico during his time there.

Although their marriage lasted just four years, Mark and Deb remained lifelong friends.

Mark later moved to Denver, Colorado, where he began a long and fulfilling career with the Northern Pacific Railroad. His work took him across the country, but he made his permanent home in Aurora. There, he built a special circle of friends and neighbors, including Cheryl Jean, Roger, and Duaine. He especially appreciated his cat sitter, Dora, for her devoted care of his beloved feline companions.

Cats, especially one named Choo-Choo, became Mark’s family. He was one of the few single men in his neighborhood, and because of his soft spot for animals he started a neighborhood ritual. Around 3:30 each afternoon, neighbors walking their miniature dogs (often women) would stop by his front door for treats he always kept on hand. He enjoyed this ritual as much as the recipients.

Mark also loved to travel. He treasured visits to Minnesota to spend time with Steve’s family - Cora, Brandon, and the twin granddaughters, Elba and Eloise.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Beryl and Rodney Johnson; his brother, Bruce Johnson; and his sister, Karen Johnson. He is survived by his sister, Christine Johnson Higgins (Thomas Higgins) of Brunswick and Readfield, Maine; his niece, Erin Higgins Henderson (Robert Henderson) of Romania; great-niece Caitlin Henderson of Stonehill College; great-nephew Adam Henderson of Denison University; and nephew Brendan Higgins of Readfield, Maine.

Mark Johnson will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, gentle kindness, sometimes grumpy demeanor (he always told you what he thought about anything), deep patriotism, and unwavering love of animals. He is deeply missed and remembered with love by all who knew him.

A Committal Service will be held at Fort Logan National Cemetery, on August 25th, at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to these organizations: HUMAN COLORADO (formerly DENVER DUMB FRIENDS LEAGUE), 2080 S. Quebec St., Denver, Co. 80231, LUKES WINGS, 1053 31st St. NW # 540, Washington, DC 20007, TEAM RUBICON, 214 Main Street, #354, El Segundo, Ca. 90245,