The Missoula community is grappling with the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of Bernice Johnston, a beloved local leader, co-owner of Montana River Guides, and passionate Oula dance fitness instructor. Her passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her. Bernice was much more than a businesswoman and instructor; she was a compassionate, uplifting figure who dedicated her life to making a positive difference in the lives of others. From her adventurous spirit and entrepreneurial drive to her unwavering commitment to her family and community, Bernice’s legacy will continue to inspire and resonate with everyone whose life she touched.
Bernice’s journey began on the south shore of Oahu, Hawaii, where she was born and raised. Surrounded by the ocean’s rhythmic waves, Bernice developed a deep love for surfing and the ocean’s natural beauty. Growing up in Hawaii, she was shaped by the island’s vibrant culture and strong sense of community, which influenced her values of connection, adventure, and service to others. Her early experiences in Hawaii instilled in her an unshakeable appreciation for nature and the joy of exploring the outdoors, passions that would shape her future endeavors.
Her path eventually led her to Montana, where she co-founded Montana River Guides with her husband, Mike Johnston, in 1994. Together, they turned their shared passion for whitewater rafting into a thriving business that introduced countless individuals to the exhilarating and breathtaking beauty of Montana’s rivers. What started as a small operation grew into a successful enterprise that offered unforgettable river adventures for families, adventurers, and thrill-seekers alike.
At Montana River Guides, Bernice became the heart and soul of the operation. As the office and reservations manager, she worked tirelessly to ensure that every guest felt welcomed and taken care of. Her personal touch was evident in everything she did—whether it was managing bookings, answering questions, or providing insightful recommendations for each guest’s adventure. Bernice went above and beyond to make every river trip an unforgettable experience, offering her guests more than just a guided rafting trip but a personal connection to the rivers and landscapes of Montana.
Bernice’s legendary barbecues and homemade brownies became a hallmark of Montana River Guides, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to making each guest feel special. Her warmth, kindness, and attention to detail set a high standard for her business, ensuring that every client felt like a part of the family. Those who met Bernice often spoke of her ability to make everyone feel valued, regardless of their background or experience. She was not just an entrepreneur; she was a friend, a guide, and a mentor to all those who crossed her path.
Beyond her business endeavors, Bernice was deeply committed to her community. She devoted a decade of her life to volunteering at the Missoula YWCA, where she facilitated women’s programs and provided support to those in need. With a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Montana, Bernice used her professional expertise and genuine empathy to help countless individuals navigate difficult times and improve their lives. Her work at the YWCA exemplified her commitment to uplifting others and making a lasting impact in the lives of those who were struggling or looking for guidance.
As a counselor, Bernice was known for her compassionate listening and thoughtful advice. She had an innate ability to understand people’s struggles and offer practical support to help them move forward. Her work with the YWCA was just one of many examples of how Bernice poured herself into causes that she believed in—whether it was empowering women, supporting the less fortunate, or promoting wellness in the community. She was a leader in every sense of the word, using her talents and skills to support others and make Missoula a better place.
In addition to her work as a business owner and counselor, Bernice was a passionate Oula instructor. Oula, a dance fitness program that emphasizes movement and connection, became another avenue for Bernice to inspire those around her. She had a contagious energy and positivity that brought joy and vitality to every class she led. Her commitment to wellness, both physical and mental, was evident in her dedication to Oula, where she fostered a sense of community and connection through dance. Her classes were more than just fitness sessions—they were opportunities for participants to come together, find joy, and support one another through the power of movement.
Bernice’s love for movement and fitness was matched only by her devotion to her family. A devoted mother to five children, Bernice balanced her professional endeavors with a deep commitment to her family. Her children were the center of her world, and she made sure to spend time with them, whether it was guiding them on their own life journeys, enjoying family adventures, or simply sharing in the everyday moments that make life meaningful. Her nurturing spirit and boundless energy extended beyond her professional life and into her family, where she served as a role model, teacher, and advocate for her children’s dreams.
Bernice’s sudden passing leaves a significant void in the Missoula community. Her legacy, however, will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched through her business, her volunteer work, her teaching, and, most importantly, her loving and compassionate nature. The values she instilled in those who knew her—community, kindness, resilience, and adventure—will be carried forward for years to come. While her absence is deeply felt, her influence remains ever-present in the ways she impacted her family, friends, colleagues, and the many people she helped over the years.
As the Missoula community mourns the loss of such a vibrant and compassionate leader, those who knew Bernice are coming together to honor her life and the lasting impact she made. A celebration of Bernice’s life is being planned by her family, with details to be announced soon. In the meantime, those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to support local organizations that reflect her passions, such as the Missoula YWCA or community wellness programs.
Bernice Johnston’s life was a testament to the power of compassion, adventure, and community. She dedicated her time and energy to uplifting others, whether through her business, her volunteer work, or her teaching. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire others to live with kindness, resilience, and a sense of adventure. Though she is no longer with us, Bernice’s spirit will continue to live on through the lives of the many individuals whose paths she crossed. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her dedication to making the world a better place.
As the Missoula community continues to grieve, they take solace in the knowledge that Bernice’s legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched. Her contributions to Missoula, Montana River Guides, and the broader community will continue to be felt for years to come. Bernice’s passing may have left a void, but her impact will never be forgotten.
