Richard Johnston

A speak your mind kind of guy, Richard L. Johnston was never at a loss for words. He didn’t worry about the big picture in life; he simply lived every moment to its fullest. Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, willing to help his loved ones in any way he could.

The 1930s found the country deep in the Great Depression, and although 1933 saw the worst, people were still able to enjoy themselves. On January 30, the first of 2,956 episodes of the “Lone Ranger” was heard on the radio, and on March 2, moviegoers oohed and aahed as “King Kong” clung to the Empire State Building. It was during this frenzied time that Harold and Juanita Johnston of Kansas City, Kansas, were awaiting the birth of their third child. Already proud parents of Robert and Jean, on January 31, 1933, son Richard was born, adding another happy voice to the busy Johnston household. Although the family actually lived in Kansas, baby Richard was born across the river in Kansas City, Missouri. Harold’s job eventually moved the family to Long Beach, California.

Richard was a typical boy growing up. Always full of energy, he loved to play outside and frequently tagged along with his older brother. He received his formal education in California and while in high school, ran track. He later earned an Associates Degree from Davenport University. After graduating high school, Richard enlisted in the United States Air Force for four years and was stationed at Kinross Air Force Base in Sault St. Marie, Michigan. Soon after being discharged, Richard returned to California and met the love of his life, Joan Herrman. Their first meeting was a little awkward since Richard was actually picking up Joan’s roommate for a date. Once their eyes met, however, they knew they were destined for each other. After a whirlwind courtship of only three months, Richard and Joan were married on September 7, 1957, in Las Vegas.

Richard began driving a truck for Thrifty Drug and the State of California. This job meant a move for the family to Anaheim, California. Both Richard and Joan were ready to start a family and in 1966, they had their first child, son Craig. He was followed in 1967 by sister Kathy and in 1971 little brother Bob completed the Johnston family. Having a strong family was always important to Richard. A strict disciplinarian, Richard raised his children the “old school” way by teaching them manners and showing respect for their elders. He also created a lot of good times for the family, especially on many memorable family vacations to the Grand Canyons, Redwoods, Disney and sporting events like St. Louis Ram football games. In 1979, Richard moved his family to Grand Rapids, Michigan to be closer to Joan’s family. Richard cherished the times of his life whenever they occurred. He always let Joan plan their future while he simply enjoyed the moment. Tragically on February 23, 1996, Joan unexpectedly passed away. This was a devastating time for Richard and took a huge toll on his life. After 38 years of marriage, he no longer had his rock and sunshine in Joan.

As was apparent from his pleasant demeanor, Richard enjoyed the simple things in life, especially when it came to eating. Their travels were all hinged around where and when the next meal would take place. Even after stopping for a big breakfast, by the time they were getting in the car he was already asking, “where are we going to eat?” Richard enjoyed getting together with friends and family and throwing parties at his home. Many of the family videos were shot with Richard holding the camera. He enjoyed being the cameraman. A man of varied interests, Richard liked playing cards, especially Pinochle, woodworking, camping with his family and bowling. He was also a member of the Masons and Moose Lodge. For his listening and dancing pleasure, Richard enjoyed music by Bing Crosby, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Conway Twitty and Hank Williams Sr. and liked watching The Streets of San Francisco and Rockford Files. Another of his favorite hobbies was collecting and shooting firearms at the Walker Sportsman Club. His favorite guns being the 9MM Berretta and the 357 Smith and Wesson.

Richard L. Johnston, aged 71, passed away on Wednesday, July 14, 2004. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Johnston; and father, Harold Johnston. Richard is survived by his children: Craig (Bonnie) Johnston, Kathy (Frank) Farley, and Robert (Audrey) Johnston; 8 grandchildren; mother, Juanita Johnston; brother, Robert (Margie) Johnston; sister, Jean (Fred) Ridgeway; and sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann (Bill) Foster.

The funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, July 19, at the Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. N.W. Relatives and friends may meet the family at the funeral home from 11-1 p.m. on Monday. Interment in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can read Richard’s life story, leave a memory, order flowers or make a memorial contribution to Heartland Hospice.

Richard Johnston was a wonderful example of a dedicated and loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be deeply missed.