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Donald JOHNSTON

June 22, 2007

Donald “Don” William Johnston: age 73, of Summerland, BC, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, June 22 nd , 2007, after a prolonged battle with Foix-Alajouanine Syndrome and Cancer. He was born on July 31 st , 1933 in Chilliwack, BC to the late Ernie and Edan Johnston. As a boy and young man Don lived in Chilliwack, Vancouver, Penticton and Princeton. Don married his sweetheart, Irene on March 18 th , 1961 and they spent many happy years together in Golden, Sechelt and Summerland. As a skilled and much sought after owner/operator trucker for more than 40 years, Don lent a quiet expertise to all he did. Don was also an accomplished and talented pianist who brought smiles to the faces of all who heard him play. His mastery included artistry with wood, and his ability to turn plain boards into beautiful toys, cabinetry or furniture is a lasting memory of his talent. His eye for detail and quality was unmatched. Unmatched as well was his devotion to his family and friends. Unparalleled as a father, his children remember the hours he spent with them, teaching, playing and being a creative and wonderful Dad to his kids. Don was a member of the Kinsmen Club of Golden and also enjoyed Cross Country skiing, Hiking, and Badminton. Don loved to fish and in the gentle ways of a true outdoors man, he appreciated nature in all its forms, especially the beautiful mountains and lakes of British Columbia. Towards the end of his life, Don faced many challenges and met them determinedly with his wife Irene always by his side. Th rough a series of rare spinal cord illnesses and complications, Don lost the use of his legs. He adjusted to life in a wheelchair with astounding creativity and aplomb, even inventing his own chair that would allow him to stand upright in order that he could still continue to work in his wood shop. Don is lovingly survived by his wife Irene and their two children, son Ted (Donna) Johnston of Gallarate, Italy, and daughter Brenda LeCerf of Summerland, BC, who gave Don his two lovely granddaughters, Kim LeCerf (Bobby) and great-grandson Logan of Luduc, Alberta and Amy LeCerf of Grande Prairie, Alberta. He will be greatly missed by his only sister Shirley (Ron) Allison of Sechelt, BC. He is further survived by many aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many other relatives, friends and colleagues, who will mourn his passing as we will. A date for a celebration of Don’s life will be announced later. Memorial donations may be made to Th e Rick Hansen Foundation: 5 th Floor 520 West 6 th Ave., Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1A1. Th e immediate family would like to thank and show appreciation for our family members, many friends and neighbours, and all those dedicated and understanding individuals involved in Don’s care and support in the past years. As we will always remember Don, we will always remember your kindness. Condolences may be directed to the family by email: summerlandfuneralhome@telus.net. Arrangements entrusted to: Summerland Funeral Home 250-494-7752. Providence Funeral Homes Inc.



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