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James Nathaniel Johnston
November 3, 1949 – December 22, 2018
Burial Date: December 28, 2018
Barry “James” Nathaniel Johnston
It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of a dear husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to so many. Jim was born November 3, 1949 in Lindsay, ON to the late Nathaniel and Jean Johnston (nee Drew). He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Gayle (nee Curtis), his son Dr. Kenton James Johnston of St. Louis, MO, his daughter Kristi Wilde (Alan) of Ottawa, daughter Sarah Kobia (Kofi) of Ottawa, and his grandchildren whom he adored, Julia, Dawson, Clarkson and Jacob. He leaves behind his brother Tom of Woodville, ON, his brother Gordon (Beverly) of Hamilton, ON, his brother Timothy (Shelley) of Woodville, ON, his sister Helen Langille (Daniel) of Petawawa, ON, and brother Glen (Jennifer) of Woodville, ON. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who remember him with much fondness. Jim spent his growing up years in Woodville, ON playing hockey at the community rink, and baseball, where he was quite the catcher! He excelled at school, doing grades 5 and 6 in one year. He graduated from Bible College in 1970, earning the title of class valedictorian. He spent his summers working with his father at the Eldon Creamery; his humorous retelling of these particular memories have etched their way into Johnston tradition. He married the love of his life, Gayle, in 1972, and moved to Winnipeg, MB. They both contributed greatly to Bethel Community Church throughout their years in Winnipeg, and cherish the friendships made while there. Jim served with distinction as assistant pastor and preached many sermons, always using humor and personal narrative to delight and inspire his audience. He began his career with the TD Bank in 1973, where he worked as a bank manager, eventually transitioning to the corporate office downtown Winnipeg. Upon his medical retirement in 1993, the family relocated to Ottawa. Alongside his wife, Jim continued to serve in ministry with a particular emphasis on pastoral care. As his health continued to decline, he used his enduring humor and beautiful singing voice to regale his hospital roommates, and nurses. Jim never knew a stranger, befriending everyone who crossed his path. He was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren, always encouraging them to seek more education, and realize their potential. He gave selflessly of his time, editing many an academic paper until the wee hours of the morning to help ensure his kids success. He will be remembered as the grandpa who dressed up as a hula dancer to go trick-or-treating, and the cheerleader in the hockey stands. In 1991, his love for music, and crazy sense of humor, prompted him and his siblings to start a singing and dancing group, named The Pink Flamingos, in which he delighted many an audience with his dance moves. Jim’s unwavering faith in God, his steadfastness despite so many challenges, his humor, and love for so many will be remembered with great love and fondness. His was indeed a life well lived. Until we meet again.
Visitation will be at Community Pentecostal Church in Orleans, ON on Friday, December 28th at 9:00 am, followed by the funeral at 11:00 am. Reception to follow in the church gymnasium. Internment at Hope Cemetery will immediately follow the funeral.
Memorial donations in memory of James Johnston may be made to the Arthritis Society and Ottawa Innercity Ministries.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de James Nathaniel Johnston November 3 1949 December 22 2018.
Décès pour la Ville: Mississauga, Province: Ontario
