Like the unpredictability of a fish’s move, a river current, the break of a green, the steepness of a bunker, life is full of unpredictable and unexpected events. The ability to adapt and respond to challenges is essential in Fly fishing, Golf and LIFE.
Unpredictively and unexpectedly, Bret Lee Johnston, at 45, sustained a traumatic brain injury after a round of golf with his family in Mesquite, Nevada. He passed away on March 10, 2025, at St. George Intermountain Hospital surrounded with all the love and support of family and friends.
On November 22, 1979, Bret was welcomed into this world to Bill Johnston, Kellie McLean and brother Josh Johnston in Rawlins, Wyoming. He was raised in the mountainous beauty of both Dubois, Wyoming and Vernal, Utah, where his love of the great outdoors grew and ran deep.
Bret is survived by his beloved partner, Saige Galley Davis, and her children, Hayden (Erin) Davis, and Ashlen Davis; the mother of his son, Lisa Freestone Johnston; his son and favorite person in the world, Eben Lee Johnston; his father, Bill Johnston; his brother, Josh (Joey) Johnston; his grandparents, Jerry and Pat Stewart Outlaw; his nieces, Harlee (Camden) Beavers, Kodee (Brandon Herrera) Johnston, Oaklee Johnston; his nephew, Kohlton “Bub” Johnston; the kiddos, Kayson, Noah and Asher Davis and so many family members and countless friends.
Bret was preceded in death by his mother Kellie McLean; his grandparents Asa and Jean Workman Johnston; his grandfather, Max McLean; and his cousin Trevor Outlaw.
Bret was one of the lucky ones to start out his career by making a living by his passion for fly fishing as a guide on the Green River. He excelled with his ability and determination to go with the flow, battling the currents to find that perfect spot to catch a big one, while having the best experience and enjoying life.
Bret also worked as a fourth-generation oilfield worker, taking on many roles, including Roughneck, MWD Hand, and Directional Driller. His easy-going, laidback personality made work fun and enjoyable.
Whether it be a fishing rod, golf club, or a spatula, Bret always had a stick in his hand. His love for golf was “in his blood.” His natural ability to swing a club and play the game came with ease. Bret also enjoyed going to the grocery store, cooking, and feeding others—particularly Saige and Ashlen, who benefitted the most from his culinary talents.
Having that Johnston blood meant Bret was also stubborn, hardheaded, dedicated, and very devoted. He worked hard at being the best at everything, especially being a father. Eben was Bret’s best friend, the light and joy in his life; he was and will always be incredibly proud of Eben. Saige was his “person.” Their connection was strong, and their love and deep friendship were evident to everyone who knew them. The world was theirs to explore, filled with happiness and joy.
Bret looked up to his father, Bill. Their relationship went beyond father and son. Many trips and adventures they took together, fishing, playing golf, hunting, and camping created many fun stories and memories. His brotherly love for Josh was something to behold. You never knew what was going to happen when those two got together, so unpredictable. Through the thick and thin of childhood, the rough waters of teenagers, and the trials of adulthood, they were united in blood, spirit, and mind. They always looked out for each other, supporting each other to play the ball where it lies, to take that shot, to never give up, to have the courage to withstand the storms of life.
Bret was funny, motivating, caring, loving, understanding, and most forgiving. He always had a smile on his face and a positive outlook on life. He was not one to gossip or speak ill of anyone. If anything were said in a negative way he would say, “oh, come on now.”
Every kid loved him, and he loved them.
Bret’s enjoyment of fishing, golf, cooking, camping, hunting, rafting, sports, games, and having a good time knew no bounds. All his hobbies and activities always included family, friends, and fun. It is where he met and made new friends that became family. Bret was an entertainer at heart; he loved people, anybody and everyone was invited and welcome.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life, “no crying allowed” on March 29, 2025 @1:00, at the Zimmerman Property near Moonshine Arch.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in remembrance of Bret to the “Eben Lee Fun’d” to help enhance Eben’s future.
