January 27, 1968 – July 20, 2026
Kurt Samuel Johnson—a compassionate physician, devoted husband, proud father, cherished son, and loving brother—passed away on July 20, 2026, at the age of 58.
Born in Hayward, California, Kurt moved as an infant to Santa Maria, California, where his vibrant spirit and boundless energy quickly emerged. He embraced a rich childhood filled with classic Central Coast adventures: playing youth soccer and Little League baseball, racing BMX bikes, making music, and quietly establishing himself as a formidable pinball wizard. In 1970, he stepped into one of his favorite early roles, becoming a proud and protective big brother to his sister, Tracy.
A 1986 graduate of Ernest Righetti High School, Kurt was both an athlete and a musician. He played cello with the Santa Maria Youth Symphony and discovered a lifelong passion for distance running on the high school Track and Cross Country teams, ultimately finding his rhythm in the 800-meter race.
Kurt pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), earning a double major in Biochemistry and Spanish. Driven by a deep appreciation for language, culture, and exploration, he studied abroad in Cuernavaca, Mexico, and Madrid, Spain. It was during his time living and working in Madrid that Kurt met the love of his life, Adriana Noya. The two were married on January 2, 1993, beginning a beautiful, enduring partnership that anchored the rest of his life.
Guided by an innate desire to heal and serve, Kurt returned to California to earn his medical degree from the UCLA School of Medicine, followed by a Family Practice Residency at Northridge Hospital. After beginning his practice in Newbury Park, Kurt and Adriana sought a small, tight-knit community to practice medicine and build their family, bringing them to Laramie, Wyoming—a place where they immediately felt at home and built lasting, meaningful connections.
Over the course of his distinguished medical career, Dr. Johnson made a profound impact across the region. He served his community in private practice, held the vital role of Medical Director for Wyoming corrections system, and spent three years as the primary Medical Director for the University of Wyoming Athletics Department—a position that brought him immense professional joy and pride. Known for his razor-sharp mind, exceptional clinical precision, and patient-first approach, Kurt earned the deep respect of colleagues and the lifelong trust of those in his care.
An avid triathlete at heart, Kurt’s passion for cycling, running, and swimming remained a constant thread throughout his life. Yet, above all his professional accolades and athletic achievements, Kurt’s greatest triumph was his family. He was a deeply devoted husband to Adriana and a proud, active father to his three sons: Samuel, Marcos, and Lucas. Whether picking up tennis to play alongside Sam and Marcos or dusting off his cello to practice as his sons learned their own string instruments, Kurt’s devotion to his boys was central to everything he did.
Kurt leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, healing, warmth, and unconditional love. He will be remembered for his brilliant mind, compassionate heart, and the quiet strength he offered to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Kurt is survived by his beloved wife, Adriana; his three sons, Samuel, Marcos, and Lucas; his parents, Nancy and Sam Johnson; and his sister, Tracy Smith (Rob, Taylor, Brooke).
- Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026
- Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (1:oo Pacific Time)
- Zoom Option: https://uwyo.zoom.us/j/93429007126
- Location: The Ranch Club at the University of Wyoming Football Stadium
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: UW Cowboy Joe Club (https://cowboyjoeclub.com) or the Laramie High School Tennis Team (405) 229-8074.
To the Johnson Family, my deepest condolences to you at this difficult time. I am so saddened to learn of your loss. Kurt and I attended Righetti High School (I was Class of 1987). We had some classes together and ran Varsity Cross Country. Additionally, my first ever visit to Europe was to Madrid, Spain in 1990 and Kurt (and Tracy) were there to greet me and hang out the evening I arrived. I will always remember Kurt’s friendship and his infectious laugh. Kurt is the reason I fell in love with Madrid and Spain. I have such good memories of Kurt and our friendship in high school and beyond and will always fondly remember him as one of my flavorite ‘ERHS Class of 86’ buddies. We had such a laugh as teammates and friends. God Bless.
To the Johnson Family, my deepest condolences to you at this difficult time. Kurt and I attended Righetti High School (I was Class of 1987). We had some classes together and ran Varsity Cross Country. Additionally, my first ever visit to Europe was to Madrid, Spain in 1990 and Kurt (and Tracy) was there to greet me and hang out the evening I arrived. I will always remember Kurt’s friendship and his infectious laugh. I have such good memories of Kurt and our friendship in high school and beyond. I will always fondly remember Kurt as one of my flavorite ‘ERHS Class of 86’ buddies. We had such a laugh as teammates and friends. God Bless.
My sincere sympathy on the loss of your Husband, son father and brother. Although not much contact these past years, I have been replaying fond memories this past week. Love & strength to all.
Sorry for your families loss of Kurt. I played little league baseball with Kurt and his dad /coach Sam.
Heartbroken and still in disbelief to hear of Dr. Johnson’s passing. We worked together for many years, and I was lucky to call him a friend. Dr. Johnson was the person you went to when you needed an answer to just about any medical question. His depth of knowledge was remarkable, and he always seemed to have the right statistic or fact at his fingertips. He was incredibly quick-witted, brilliant, and always willing to help others. One memory that always makes me smile (although not really funny) is when Dr. Johnson, being the sports lover he was, filled in for me at a softball game. True to his fashion, he gave it everything he had…and ended up tearing his Achilles tendon. Even that story perfectly captures his willingness to step up and his competitive spirit. I’m so sorry I won’t be able to attend today, as I’ll be attending another funeral service, but my thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Johnson’s family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, my friend. You will be greatly missed. 💔
Queridos Adriana, Samuel, Marcos y Lucas, No hay palabras que puedan expresar lo Mucho que sentimos la pérdida de vuestro marido y padre. Qué bendición haberlo tenido con vosotros todo estos años y siempre presente y dedicado como era él. Yo siempre lo recordaré en su descapotable rojo la primera vez que lo conocimos en Westwood. Siempre sonriente y buenísima persona. Para lo que necesitéis aquí estamos. Siempre pidiendo por vosotros para que nuestro padre celestial os acompañe con su espíritu dándoos paz, consuelo y mucha fuerza para poder luchar contra esos molinos de viento que vais a encontrar en vuestro camino. Pero todo pasará, y la pena tan grande pasará a ser recuerdos entrañables que os acompañarán toda la vida. ❤️ Os queremos mucho! Rosa, Shawn, Victoria, Cristina y Sofía
Kurt will always standout in our hearts and minds as a wonderful example of a loving husband and dedicated father. His legacy will live on in the lives, accomplishments, and love of his family. Our love and condolences to Adriana, Samuel, Marcos, and Lucas. Your husband and father and his beautiful personality will be greatly missed. “Yo siento, amigos, que me voy muriendo, y encomiendo mi alma a Dios, que me la dio. No os entristezcáis más de lo justo, porque quien ha vivido bien no teme a la muerte. La honra que nace de la virtud nunca muere.” — Miguel de Cervantes —
I was so very sorry to hear of Dr. Johnson’s passing. He was the first doctor we saw when we moved to Laramie and he was so kind to us during a difficult time. And he will be remembered by a grateful couple. Sincere condolences to his family.
Adriana, Sam, Marcos, and Lucas, I was heartbroken when I received news of Kurt's passing a few days later. He and I became fast friends on the UW tennis courts, and I delighted playing tennis with him in local tournaments, mountain biking, and golfing with his father. When he became the Medical Director for UW Athletics, I was fortunate to work in his professional capacity as I was a tennis official at the time. Kurt's caring attention and devotion to his family, his friends, and his profession ensured that everyone around him became better because of his presence. We are all immensely fortunate to share Kurt's far-too-short time with us. My sincere condolences to all who will feel this loss.
To my favorite family. Its so hard at this time for all of you.My deepest condolences .We will miss Curt very much.Its been a shock to all of us.Curt rest in peace and join your angels!!Love Cheri and Smiley Troutman
I was greatly saddened to hear the news of Kurt's passing. Regrettably, it has been a long time since I was last in touch with Kurt, but my memories of him remain strong, and nothing other than fond. I knew Kurt best in high school through the cross-country team and from being within his circle of friends. Smart, fun-loving, and hard-working are just a few of the words that come to mind when describing Kurt, but most of all he was kind. Always kind. I recall that he aspired to be a physician even in those teen years, and for the most important of reasons – to help people. I have no doubt that he succeeded in doing so. My condolences to his family, friends, patients and all those whose lives he touched.
Dr. Johnson may well be the reason my husband is still alive today. In 2009, my husband was his patient and went in for a routine check up announcing that he was feeling a lot of fatigue. I had to beg him to go see the doctor, even though he had one of the best around. Dr. Johnson ran bloodwork and was unsure what the results meant. He did not give up and, more importantly, he didn't let my husband slink away and convince himself he was just getting older. He ran additional tests, made referrals and followed up. His work ultimately led to a diagnosis of stage IV colon cancer and a rare genetic disorder which allowed my husband to get the targeted care he needed and survive. He was one of the best and I cannot imagine the hole left in your family. You are all in our prayers.
I got to know Kurt while an exchange student in Santa Maria, CA. We both ran cross country and Track & Field. We didn’t stay in touch, but he was a great guy. Rest in peace Kurt & condolences to the family.
Wow...LIFE is so short. He filled it well. One of his patients when he was new in town. Great bedside manner . Wife so kind . Kids as baby's remember them well. Nice to have known all.
Adriana, I was so shocked to hear of your loss. As a widow, I understand your grief and I pray for you for your loss for you and the boys.
Tracy. Heart felt condolences. Bren. Alain’s mother
Mi querida Adri. Lamento muchísimo vuestra pérdida. Perder a una persona amada deja un vacío enorme en el alma y, si no la correspondía dejaros, el vacío es abismal. No tengo ninguna duda de que tú eres y serás el punto de apoyo para tus niños. Yo me ofrezco de corazón para ser tu farola siempre lo que necesites. Te quiero.
Nuestro querido amigo Kurt Samuel Johnson, que para nosotros siempre será Sam, vino a España a estudiar español y se volvió a EEUU llevándose con él nuestros corazones y a nuestra gran amiga Adriana, con quien formó una bonita familia que también es la nuestra. Os queremos muchísimo y llevaremos siempre a Sammy en nuestros corazones. Todo nuestro amor. Familia Herrero (Glori, Pako, Gus, Silvia e Inés) y Familia Grande (Magui, Txomin, Guille y Javi)
Nuestro querido amigo Kurt Samuel Johnson, que para nosotros siempre será Sam, vino a España a estudiar español y se volvió a EEUU llevándose con él nuestros corazones y a nuestra gran amiga Adriana, con quien formó una bonita familia que también es la nuestra. Os queremos muchísimo y llevaremos siempre a Sammy en nuestros corazones. Todo nuestro amor. Familia Herrero (Glori, Pako, Gus, Silvia e Inés) y Familia Grande (Magui, Txomin, Guille y Javi)
Queridos Adri, Samuel, Marcos y Lucas, os mandamos un abrazo enorme. Todos hemos tenido la gran suerte de conocer y tener a Samy (Kurt) en nuestras vidas y vosotros especialmente. Estaréis muy orgullosos por el marido y padre que siempre os ha querido y cuidado. Ahora sigue a nuestro lado y continuará velando por vosotros. Le recordaremos con todo el cariño y vosotros seguro que seguiréis el ejemplo de generosidad y honestidad que siempre demostró. Os queremos mucho.
Deepest sympathy for Dr Js family. I had the pleasure of working beside him as a clinic coordinator for the Wyoming Medium Correctional Facility in Torrington. He was always educating me and testing my medical knowledge. He also always tried to get the day over with so he could squeeze in a game of golf. Heaven has received a great medical provider.
My deepest sympathy to Dr Js family and friends. I had the pleasure of working beside him as a nurse clinic coordinator for the Wyoming department of correctional medical facility in Torrington. He was always teaching and testing my medical knowledge. Heaven has received a great medical doctor.
We are sending you so much love. I understand how much it hurts to lose a husband and father and we hope that you can find comfort in this difficult time.
My deepest sympathies for Adriana, Samuel, Marcos and Lucas, as well as Kurt's extended family and all those who loved him. I will miss seeing and visiting with Kurt at various athletic events and on the tennis courts. Our community and our world lost a giant of a man. May God bless and comfort you all. Kind regards, Corey Jenkins
Querida familia: Conocí a Samuel cuando comezó a salir con Adriana estudiando ambos en la Universidad Complutense de Madrid. No sabía entonces que sería para siempre. Hicimos un interrail en julio de 1990 por Europa, con base en casa de mi tía en Türkheim, Alemania. ¡Qué buenos recuerdos! Cuando metieron el tren en un barco queriendo ir al Berlín y terminamos en Copenhagen. Desde allí volver a Berlín aún bajo dominio de la URSS y parar el tren en la frontera y ver su pasaporte de USA y requerirle que bajará del tren y negarse. Una excursión en bicicleta a un lago en Alemania con una bici de montaña por carretera y gritar "me duelen los cojones" porque no era la bici adecuada. Su humor bastante negro y punzante me llamaba la atención. No tuve contacto directo con él durante muchos años, pero sabía de su vida y su trabajo gracias a Adriana. Mi más sentido pésame a Adriana, Marcos, Samuel y Lucas. También a sus padres y hermana. Buen viaje, Kurt Samuel Johnson.
Adriana, I was so sorry to hear about Kurt. My prayers are with you and your family love Suzie Smith
He was such an amazing doctor and person. He was funny, understanding, and cared. He'll always be my favorite.
In Memory of Kurt Johnson Kurt was my childhood amigo, a dear family friend, and a neighbor. Growing up, he was truly the “golden child”—the best of us. I will always remember him as endlessly happy, curious, and remarkably intelligent. I feel so fortunate to have spent those early years exploring our neighborhood together. It breaks my heart to hear of his passing, though it comes as no surprise to see all the incredible accomplishments he made in his life. My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends. Kurt’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through his boys, and he will always remain the role model we should all strive to be. Sincerely, Tom Georgii
A terra sera será leve cun home bo e xeneroso. O noso inmeso amor para a querida Adriana e os teus fillos, Samuel, Lucas e Marcos, dende Galicia os tíos Carmen e Marcelino e tía Dolores e os curmáns Xavier, Anabel, Martinho e Antón. Seguimos aquí, sempre pensando en tí, queridiña Adri.
Our deepest and heartfelt condolences , we will cherish the few memories of everyone together in Bloomington Hoping that all the family is surrounded by love prayers and friendship Marina Fred and Phillip Hammond
May his memory be everlasting. My sincerest condolences. He was a wonderful husband, father and neighbor.
So, sorry for your loss, I really would like to see you and your kids but I will you next week to California and I will back to Laramie August 2nd .. Big hugs to all. Love you
Muy hermosa familia, todos. Les mando mis más sincera condolencias a todos, a los niños y a mi amiga hermosa. Dios lo tiene en su reino.