ALBERT JOHNSTON -

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

ALBERT JOHNSTON 1915 - 2008 Bert died peacefully on June 1 after a valiant struggle against the effects of a fall. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Margaret, and is survived by his daughter Meryle and son-in-law Sandy; grandchildren Ben, Jamie, and Graeme; son Tom, brother Dick (Olive), sisters-in-law Meryle and Joanne, brother-in-law Doug, and many cousins in Winnipeg and Ireland. Bert was a native Winnipeger. He was born on Clifton Street, the second son of Thomas and Mary Anne Johnston, and was raised on Cambridge Avenue when it was still surrounded by prairie. He attended Kelvin High School, then went to work at the Eaton's Mail Order where he remained until its closing. He served overseas with the RCAF during the Second World War, then returned to Winnipeg where he met and married Margaret. They settled in Norwood to raise their family, and lived on Hillcrest Avenue for 54 years before moving to Lions Manor. When his children were young, he was an active member of the Champlain Community Club. He and Margaret were both champion bowlers. After Eaton's closed, he worked for the Corps of Commissionaires and was featured in both newspaper and TV reports about Life on the Beat . After his retirement, he was a member of St. Vital YMCA for 15 years, and he continued to be physically active until his death. Bert had an 80 year association with Victoria Beach, as a child going to his aunt's cottage and later at his own Johnston's Haven on Seventh Avenue. He and Margaret spent many happy times at the beach. Bert was a quiet, unassuming man whose integrity and inner strength often went unnoticed. He retained lifelong friendships from childhood and work, but he was devoted to Margaret, and was happiest when the two of them were together. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him well. Special thanks to the staff of the Intensive Care Units at Grace Hospital and St. Boniface Hospital. By his request, there will be no funeral service. BARDAL FUNERAL HOME 843 Sherbrook Street, 774-7474 Condolences: www.bardal.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 06, 2008