Morris Johnson

Morris Johnson, age 81, of Great Falls, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 6, 2015 at Peace Hospice.A service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at the Mount Olivet Columbarium. Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.Morris was born February 3, 1934 near Tina, Missouri, the son of Cornelius and Velma (Jeffries) Johnson. He graduated from Tina High School in 1952. A short time after graduation, he headed for the Big Sky Country of Montana. Morris joined his older brother, Ivan and longtime friends, the Maberrys working on wheat farms outside of Great Falls. In 1958, he traded in his farming life and started his carpentry career building houses in the rapidly expanding Riverview area. During this time he was fortunate enough to make a memorable trip to Alaska along the ALCAN Highway, which provided fodder for many stories years later.On May 27, 1972 he married Patricia Ann Hull in Great Falls. He continued to work as a carpenter and utilized his trade to build his familys home of 42 years. In 1980, he moved on to his next adventure with the Cascade County Bridge Crew. He worked hard at his career, but also worked very hard at being a good father, husband and friend. Morris made himself available for all his families activities, attending everything and helping when possible. Morriss family and many others built and helped run the first BMX track in Great Falls and traveled all over for racing; he was a great Pit man. In 1999, he retired from the County Bridge Crew with many stories and fond memories. Soon after retirement, began the most memorable chapter of his life when he became a grandfather. Morris adored his grandkids and spent many enjoyable years with them. From concerts to sports he didnt miss many activities that they were involved with. His gentle demeanor and positive outlook made him great with kids.He will be truly missed by all that knew him, games will be different without the guy in the red truck watching, but we know he is in a better place with a better view!Morris is survived by his wife, Patricia; son Michael (Rachel) Johnson of Great Falls; two brothers, Eldon (Carolyn) Johnson of Chillicothe, MO and Dale Johnson of Moberly, MO; a sister-in-law, Ruth Johnson; one granddaughter, Morgan Johnson and one grandson, Hayden Johnson.Morris was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Erva Hall; and brother, Ivan Johnson.The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Peace Hospice, 1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405 in memory of Morris.