Mourning the loss of a great man and a pillar of the Utah sports media world... The initials "S.J." will always mean something special to me because Steve Johnson changed the trajectory of my life and career. I’ll forever be grateful that he took a chance on me and gave me my own show on ESPN 960. Up to that point, I had primarily done color commentary, pregame and postgame analysis, and worked as Alema Harrington’s right-hand man on the original Cougar Blue Show on 960 AM. Steve saw something in me and took a gamble. I’d like to think it paid off. More than a decade later, our Cougar Sports is still going strong and has become one of the most listened-to and recognized sports radio shows in the state of Utah. Steve was a great man... a man of faith, hard work, and competitive fire. You always knew you were getting his very best in everything he did. He also happened to serve as the mission president for my oldest nephew and made a big impact on his life. Just like he did in business, he thrust in his sickle with all his heart in the mission field, leaving no stone unturned in serving and lifting others. For decades, Steve was a pillar in Utah sports media and broadcasting. But titles only tell part of the story. He was a great husband, father, grandfather, and steward of his home. A contributor to his church and community. A mentor. A friend. He had the ability to make people feel important, to believe in them, and to help them become more than they thought they could be. I’ll be eternally grateful for his friendship, mentorship, love, and trust in me. His impact will continue to live on through the countless lives he influenced. Love you Steve. Rest well, my friend. LINK to Obituary: thememories.com/obituary/steph…
