Jan Johnson Atascadero, CA Death and Obituary – Jan Johnson, a celebrated figure in the world of athletics, passed away on February 23, 2025, at the age of 74 in Atascadero, California. As an Olympic bronze medalist, world pole vault record holder, coach, and educator, Johnson’s contributions to the sport of pole vaulting have left a lasting legacy. His death marks the end of an era for a man who devoted much of his life to excelling in the sport and nurturing its future generations.
Born on November 11, 1950, in Hammond, Indiana, Jan Johnson’s athletic talents were evident from a young age. Growing up in the Chicago area, he attended Bloom High School in Chicago Heights, Illinois, where he began his journey in pole vaulting. In 1968, Johnson won the Illinois state high school championship in pole vaulting, signaling the start of what would become a remarkable career in the sport.
After high school, Johnson’s career took him to the University of Kansas, where he set an indoor world record by vaulting 17 feet, 7 inches. This early success was just the beginning of his meteoric rise in the pole vaulting world. Johnson transferred to the University of Alabama, where he would go on to become a three-time NCAA champion and set a school record of 18 feet, 1/2 inch. His college years were marked by consistent excellence, as he continued to dominate the pole vaulting circuit.
The pinnacle of his career came at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany. Johnson won a bronze medal in the pole vault, placing him among the world’s top athletes. His success at the Olympics was a milestone not only for him but also for the pole vaulting community, as it brought increased attention and respect to the sport on a global stage. The performance was a culmination of years of dedication and hard work, showcasing Johnson’s technical skill and determination.
In addition to his Olympic achievement, Johnson’s legacy is enriched by the accomplishments of his family. His younger brother, Tim Johnson, followed in his footsteps, setting a national high school indoor record in 1974. Jan’s daughter, Chelsea, also became a prominent pole vaulter, earning two NCAA outdoor championships and a silver medal at the 2009 World Championships in the women’s pole vault.
After retiring from competitive vaulting, Jan Johnson shifted his focus to coaching and mentoring the next generation of pole vaulters. He founded the “Sky Jumpers” pole vault camps in California’s Central Coast, which quickly gained recognition for their emphasis on safety, technique, and athlete development. Johnson expanded his influence by hosting additional camps across the country, helping athletes across the United States improve their skills. His commitment to ensuring pole vaulting’s future growth also extended to his role as an advocate for safety within the sport, educating athletes and coaches on best practices and proper training techniques.
In addition to his coaching, Johnson was a passionate writer. He co-authored The Illustrated History of the Pole Vault, a definitive resource on the sport’s history, and later published The High Flyer and the Cultural Revolution, which examined the cultural impact of pole vaulting. These works continue to inspire and educate those within the pole vaulting community.
Known for his kindness, humility, and willingness to help others, Johnson was a beloved figure in the athletics world. His contributions to the sport and his role in fostering a supportive environment for athletes made him not only a respected competitor but also a cherished mentor.
Jan Johnson is survived by his wife, Jani, and their daughter, Chelsea. His passing has left a profound impact on the pole vaulting community, where his influence will continue to inspire athletes for generations. A memorial service will be held in honor of his life and legacy, where friends, family, and fellow athletes will gather to celebrate his contributions to the sport. Jan Johnson’s achievements, both as an athlete and a coach, will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Jan—your legacy will continue to soar.