After a long and courageous fight battling cancer, it is with great emotion and sadness that the family announces Ralph’s passing. He was welcomed by the Lord through the gates of Heaven on October 29, 2023 and was greeted by many loved ones.

Ralph A. “RJ” Johnsrud, 72, of Florence, was born on August 14, 1951 at George Airforce Base in Victorville, CA., to Roger and Florence Johnsrud. He was raised across the great state of Montana alongside his two siblings, sister Sandra (Cindy) and brother, Roger.

Growing up Ralph’s Father was a Master Mechanic for road construction companies, which required him and his family to constantly relocate all over Big Sky Country. By doing so, it allowed Ralph to foster and grow thousands of relationships with people from all over the state. His natural charisma, knowledge, humor, genuine, loyal heart and his sociable nature made it easy for people to gravitate towards him.

Throughout his youth, he put his mechanical skills into farming, construction, mechanics, management, and raising funds for investments. He also spent years with the Missoula Sheriff’s Department.

Once on his own, he settled down in the Missoula area where he met his best friend, Debbie, in 1998, and whom officially became his wife on February 17, 2007.

During middle adulthood, he was a passionate and dedicated entrepreneur. His brain was like a computer; he could solve, master, remember, create and develop anything he put his mind to.

As he navigated different business ventures, he eventually had found his true passion and calling in life – mining. Throughout the rest of his life, he had bought and sold many mines, consulted, raised funds, and coordinated mining assets. He also owned and operated his own mining company, Madison Mining, located in Virginia City, MT. Ralph also knowingly became one of the most skilled miners in the world.

When he wasn’t mining, he enjoyed being home, spending time with his family, BBQing, fixing up things around the house, mowing the lawn, or going on any sort of morning or afternoon adventures with his wife, which was always followed by a lunch or dinner date.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Teresa (Johnsrud) Kuhns, his parents, and sister, Sandra (Cindy). Along with two stepdaughters, Rebecca and Katie Greely.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Debbie Johnsrud of Florence; son Jeff (Roni and Kim) Johnsrud of Missoula; daughters Brittany (Luke) Hubbard of Florence and Barbara Greely of Missoula; brother Roger Johnsrud of Las Vegas and 6 grandchildren Jasmine, Destiny, Cordell, Krysta, Jax and Adonis; and two great-grandchildren, Beau and Casandra.

His legacy will live on through his family, friends and the great stories and memories shared by all those who knew and loved him.

Until we meet again…

To honor Ralph’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. The family invites you to please privately celebrate his memory in your own ways. I know that he will be with us all in spirit. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.

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