Johng Un Kim, of Helena, MT died at St. Peter's Hospital on the morning of May 17, 2024. He was 85 years old.

Johng was born on March 14, 1939 in Korea to Taeseop and Changju Kim. He attended grade school, served a term in the South Korean military, and earned a college degree in Korea. In 1965, he immigrated from Seoul, Korea to the United States in pursuit of the American Dream.

Johng worked tireless, long hours to save money for his education. He earned a business degree at Utah State University and a Master of Business Administration degree at the University of Montana. In 1969, he married Mi Sang Kim in Seoul, Korea. The couple lived in Missoula, MT while Johng completed his graduate coursework. Before finalizing his thesis paper, Johng was offered a position as an assistant accountant at the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Montana Water Resources Board in Helena, MT and was later promoted to chief accountant. He was a dedicated State of Montana employee for 35 years. During his time working for the state, Johng and his wife opened and operated a Korean restaurant for a short period in the early 1980s called The Rib Tickler.

Johng purchased several properties and constructed four homes in the Helena area. He built and moved into his forever home with a spectacular view of the Helena Valley with his wife and growing family. After retiring, Johng put his construction skills to good use by volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. In retirement, he enjoyed watching televised sports and University of Montana Griz football games in particular.

Johng's family remembers his lifelong passion for classical music and photography. His children have fond memories of their parents sitting on the sofa listening to Mozart, Bach, and Beethoven. Johng's love of traveling and spending time in nature is apparent in the many photos hanging on walls of the family home and in an unending collection of photo albums.

Johng is survived by his wife of 55 years, his older brother and younger sister, his four daughters, Sylvia (Michael) Hamlin, Clara (William) Wheeler, Angela (Nick Kling) Kim, and Caroline (Jason Lozano) Kim, and his grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A viewing for family and close friends was held on May 22nd at Simple Cremation Montana, 315 E 6th Avenue, Helena, MT. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Flowers and condolences can be sent to 2259 Gold Rush Ave., Helena, MT 59601.