Marc Johnson, a professional skateboarder who helped create San Jose's Tiltmode Army, has passed away at the age of 49.
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Thrasher Magazine announced the news with a tribute on social media. Louie Barletta, a longtime friend of Johnson, penned the tribute and spoke about time they had recently spent time together.
"As I write this, the reality still hasn't fully set in," Barletta wrote. "It was less than a month ago that Marc came to San Jose to hang out. He was sober, healthy, and full of life. We had a blast reminiscing about the old days. He seemed genuinely excited about the future. He even extended his ticket by a couple of days so he could explore some of the old haunts around San Jose.
"When it came time to drop him off at the airport, he handed me an envelope. I waited until I got home to open it. Inside was a three-page list of his hopes and dreams for the future. Never in a million years did I imagine that less than a month later, he would be gone."
Pro skater Marc Johnson has died at the age of 49
Here is his 2007 Fully Flared part
Rest in Peace🕊️ pic.twitter.com/GMyBogXjK5
— Red Panda Koala (@RedPandaKoala) May 27, 2026
Barletta wrote that he didn't know the reason why Johnson came to visit him in the time leading up to his sudden passing. He didn't know if there was a bigger purpose or if his lifetime friend sought closure. What he did know is that Johnson said he wanted to be remembered for his skateboarding.
Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Johnson went from living in a trailer on a dirt road to traveling all over and having a major impact on the world of skateboarding.
He starred in skateboard videos, inspired generations with his tricks, and he even founded the company Enjoi. This skateboard company focused on friendship and creativity, and it became known worldwide for its panda logo.
"Without a shadow of a doubt, Marc Johnson was the single most influential person in my life," Barletta added. "Everything he did was art. He was endlessly creative and always tried to elevate his friends and everyone around him.
"He opened doors for guys like me and Jerry (Hsu), and single-handedly put San Jose back on the map. Marc had the golden touch—whether it was on a skateboard, creating brands, or developing ad campaigns. Marc Johnson passed away today. He was one of the most talented and creative people to ever step on or off a skateboard."
