Michael “Mike” Gregory Johnston
May 25, 1932 - June 28, 2024
Who passed away at Health Sciences North on June 28th, 2024. Beloved husband of Viola “Vi” (nee Marshall) and predeceased by Mae. Cherished father of Donna Whalen (John), Greg Johnston (Julie), Stephen Johnston (predeceased) (Cathy), Cheryl Hachey (Chris), Sherry MacDonald (Bill Vigars), Jody MacDonald, Gail Hayes (Peter) and Gary MacDonald (Tracy).Treasured grandfather of Scott, Kyle, Sarah, Leah, Andrew, Matthew, Eric, Jordan, Kayla, Dorian, Jayde, Hayden, Landon, Hannah & Alyssa and great grandfather of Kylan Michael Boyd. Dear son of John and Mary Agnes Johnston (both predeceased). Loving brother of Isabel, Joe (predeceased) (Jean) and Peggy (Jack predeceased). Will be sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Mike was born and raised in Red Islands, Nova Scotia on Cape Breton Island. He left Cape Breton at a young age to find work and ultimately settled in Elliot Lake, Ontario where he met and married Mae Kennedy (Dobbs) and together they had 4 children. Mike had a 35+ year career with Rio Algom and retired in 1989 as Safety Supervisor. After the death of Mae in 1988, Mike reunited with a mutual friend, Viola MacDonald, whom he ultimately married and continued to be partners in life with until his death. They settled in Garson and were married 35 years.
Mike was a man of faith and devoted many years of service to the church. He was also an active member of the Falconbridge Legion and in 2015 was awarded a Life Membership for his outstanding service to The Royal Canadian Legion. Mike was an avid curler, golfer and minor hockey coach. He was also a huge hockey fan and always tuned in to watch his favourite team, the Montreal Canadiens.
Mike always made sure others were looked after, whether it be a donation of his time or money to help a cause. Mike gave everything to his family and friends and can be described as a kind, generous and compassionate man, who always had an interesting stories to share.
Mike will forever be missed and loved by all!
Memorial Visitation at The Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024. Friends May Gather from 7-9 P.M. Memorial Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church on Thursday July 4th, 2024 at 11:00 A.M.