Martha Carolyn Johnson Fourtner ~ July 28, 1955 - July 17, 2011

Martha Carolyn Johnson Fourtner, age 55, of Forsyth, MT passed away on Sunday, July 17, 2011 at Rosebud Healthcare Center.

Martha was born in Forsyth, MT on July 28, 1955 to Emanuel and Joyce Johnson. The second of three children. She was raised on the family ranch on the Big Porcupine. Martha loved the ranch and was proud of her roots, having often stated “Ingomar is my home town.” The family eventually moved to Forsyth where she finished school, graduating in 1973. She was a natural athlete, often talking about basketball and track glory days.

On November 25, 1974 she married John L. Fourtner in Forsyth, MT. They had an unconditional love for each other. To that union they had one daughter, Andrea. She was her pride and joy. She would say “you are and always will be the miracle in my life.”

Martha attended college at MCC, Dullknife, and MSU-B. She was a professional student for many years, and was a gifted woman with many God-given talents. She enjoyed writing poetry, could play the piano by ear, and loved to cook. She loved to cook for others - especially old fashioned milkshakes for her granddaughters - as well as reading cookbooks and watching cooking shows.

Martha enjoyed fishing, camping, and going on Harley rides with John. A favorite past-time was to take a drive out north by the old homestead. She loved all animals and had a strong connection with them - it was amazing how they would react to her.

Most of all, she loved spending time visiting with family and friends and was always ready for a party. She had a deep, unfaltering love for her daughter and granddaughters. Martha had a compassionate, sincere spirit. Most notable in her ability to see the best in everyone - she held no bias, and was open minded and empathetic toward others. She had an abundance of kindness that touched all who knew her leaving them with stories that will last a lifetime.

Martha is survived by her daughter Andrea (Jason) Pederson, granddaughters Reana, Reese, and Remi; brothers Lee (Diane) Johnson and Owen T. (Julie) Johnson; aunt C. Berniece Higginbotham, who was like a mother to her, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband John L. Fourtner in 1989; her parents Emanuel O. Johnson and Joyce Johnson; aunts Gurtrude Straw, Myrtel O’Brien, Olga Axberg, Vernie Anderson, Anna Mochan, and uncle Clarence Johnson.

Her loving, kind spirit will be forever in our hearts.
All who knew her were touched by her deeply. We will forever miss our mother, sister, niece, grandmother, aunt and friend.

Fly with the Eagles.

Visitation was held on Friday, July 22, 2011 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with Family Receiving Friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth, MT.
Funeral Services were held on Saturday, July 23, 10:00 a.m. in the chapel of Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth, MT.

Burial followed in the Forsyth Cemetery. A luncheon was served at the funeral home after the graveside service.  Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth has been entrusted with these arrangements and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com. Print this post