Obit: JOHNSTON, J Weston

Moncton Times & Transcript published: 08-Jan-2005


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JOHNSTON, J. WESTON 1923-2004 Wes was born in River Hebert, N.S. and moved to Newcastle Creek, N.B. on Grand Lake, when he was 3 years, old where he spent many happy times. He enrolled in the RCAF in 1942 as a Wireless Operator (air) at Guelph, Ontario. He completed a tour of operations in Bomber Command with 434 Squadron in Lancaster aircraft. After the War, Wes attended the University of New Brunswick under the Veterans' Rehabilitation Act and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering . In 1951, he rejoined the RCAF as a Pilot Officer and rose to the rank of Squadron Leader (Major). During 1957 to 1960, he enjoyed his posting to Baden-Soellingen, Germany, as Construction Engineering Officer. From 1968 to 1983, Wes was employed by Agriculture Canada as a Construction Engineer. He travelled extensively throughout Canada both with the Air Force as well as for Agriculture Canada. Wes served in many volunteer positions, particularly after his retirement in 1983. A few of these services were as President of the Legion in Westport, and for United Way as well as the Volunteer Bureau in Brockville (all in Ontario). But unfortunately, after a valiant 6 year battle with lymphoma cancer, Wes passed away peacefully with his devoted wife, Helen, by his side, on Wednesday, December 22, 2004, in his 82nd year. Lovingly missed by his children Don (Brenda), Michael (Susan), Betty (Charlie), Robin (Ginette), Danny (Peter) and Paul (Linda). Survived by his dear sister Eleanor (Mort) who came from New Brunswick along with her daughter, Joanne, for two weeks prior to Wes' admittance to St. Mary's of the Lake Hospital in Kingston. Predeceased by his siblings Lynwood, Catherine, Herman, Carlyle and Bernice. Loved by his six grandchildren Weston, Jason (Amy), Melanie (Mike), Ross, Matthew and Cameron, and great-granddaughter Aleksa. Fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews. Sadly missed by friends in Ottawa, Westport, Maitland and Kingston where he and his wife lived together for the past 30 years. A special thanks to the staff of St. Mary's (Palliative Care unit) for being compassionate and providing comfort to Wes and Helen during the final days. Moreover, the medical team of Kingston General Hospital Cancer Centre (Dr. David Lee, oncologist) provided exemplary support and care over the years. In accordance with his wishes, Wes was cremated. A memorial service will be held at St. Andrew's by-the-Lake United Church in Kingston on January 15, 2005, at 2:30 p.m. Interment to follow in Ottawa in summer of 2005. For those wishing, remembrance donations to St. Andrew's by-the-Lake United Church, the Kingston General Hospital Cancer Centre, or St. Mary's of the Lake Hospital would be appreciated.

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