Popular local musician and mentor Mark Johnson died tragically in a car accident on Highway 82 at the Buffalo Valley turn-off this past Saturday, Feb. 15. Mark was driving westbound in a 2002 Toyota Camry that collided with an oncoming 2025 Toyota Camry in the eastbound lane. There were three people in the 2025 Camry, two of whom suffered serious injuries.
Mark was 66 years old and a resident of Glenwood Springs. He was one of the best saxophone players by many accounts, but didn’t keep his raw talent to himself. He taught many young musicians throughout the Valley over the years. He was a friend to many, near and far (from New York City to Rockford, Illinois), who have collectively expressed tremendous sadness over the loss.
Mark worked with local high school band programs and was the program coordinator for Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS) Academy.
“Mark was such a huge part of the Academy program and such a fan of every single student that came through the program, following your careers and celebrating your achievements along the way,” JAS Academy posted on Facebook. “He will be missed greatly.”
“He brought us so much new talent and supported the arts through music,” the Glenwood Springs Arts Council chimed in with a post.
Play on, Mr. Johnson.