D. Kim Johnson

Born to Roy and Joy Johnson in Cardston, Alberta, Kim was the second eldest of four boys. He was raised on a farm outside Spring Coulee, where he learned the value of hard work while also appreciating life and having fun. These were qualities Kim embodied every day until the very end.

After leaving the farm, Kim quickly moved up the ranks at a construction company in Lethbridge. His talent, determination, and passion for getting the job done led him to the founding of Boundary Construction in Calgary, where he was one of the partners at the young age of 26. After several successful years with Boundary, Kim struck out on his own and started Akela Construction in 1985.

With nothing more than a truck, a few clients, and an unwavering work ethic, Kim built Akela Construction into a successful and respected Alberta company. Through every challenge and opportunity, it was his toughness, determination, and larger-than-life personality that drove the company forward. Today, Akela Construction continues under the leadership of his two sons, Chad and Kade. The company remains successful while carrying forward the same philosophy Kim lived by: work hard, treat people right, and always make time to enjoy life.

Kim met the love of his life, Debbie, in 1979. They quickly became inseparable and spent every day of their lives together from that point forward. Whether they were taking motorcycle trips, visiting family on the farm, building their home near Millarville, or creating their dream vacation retreat in Mexico, they were always embarking on their next adventure. Their home is filled with photographs and mementos reflecting a lifetime of cherished memories with family and countless friends.

Despite his success, Kim never lost sight of what mattered most. He made time to enjoy life and share it with others. At any given time, Kim and Debbie could be found riding their Harleys across the country, relaxing on the beach in Melaque, or hosting one of their legendary gatherings at their home in Millarville. Kim loved being around people and had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome, valued, and cared for. He remained surrounded by family and friends right through his final days.

Kim loved each of his six grandchildren dearly. Nothing made him happier than hearing their stories and keeping up with what was happening in their lives. He enjoyed the hockey games, musical performances, and other milestones, but mostly he just loved spending time with them, trading stories and sharing his unique brand of wisdom every once in a while. The relationship he built with each of his grandchildren meant the world to him, and it is something they will cherish for the rest of their lives.

Kim is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; his sons, Chad (Kara) and Kade (Juanita); his grandchildren, Kayla (Brendan), Matthew, Nicholas, Ella, Claire, and Max; and his beloved dogs, Jasper and Sully. He is also survived by his brothers, Ron, Wade, and Brent, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Kim leaves behind an enormous circle of friends and acquaintances whom he loved dearly. He also carried in his heart the memory of many close friends who passed before him. Kim and Deb’s dogs were always much more than pets; they were cherished members of the family, and those who went before him held a special place in his heart as well.

Larger than life in every sense, Kim leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of those who knew him. His stories, laughter, wisdom, and unwavering zest for life will be remembered always. Kim’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the company he built, the friendships he cherished, and the countless lives he touched.

All who wish are invited to pay their respects at an open house at Kim and Deb’s property in Millarville, Alberta, on Friday, July 24th, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue Foundation at donate.heavencanwait.ca