Earl Johnston

Earl Gordon Johnston

Earl Johnston passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2016 at Douglas Campbell Lodge, surrounded by family and care providers.

Earl was born September 18, 1927 in Portage la Prairie to Dorothy and Thomas Johnston. Dad grew up south of Portage, making Portage his lifelong home. He attended the country school until grade six or in his words, “I had half of my grade twelve.”

Dad met our Mom, Doreen Anderson at a local dance through his sister Myrte. This meeting would spark a love that would endure for the next 65 years.

Dad’s life ambition was to be a cowboy, but he was destined to be a carpenter and farmer instead. He worked for many years as a carpenter with Pool Elevators and various construction companies. This was a time when there were no power tools used in construction. The hammer and hand saw were his main tools. This profession led him to build many of their homes.

In 1970, he and his brother Sid became partners in a farm. Through the years they raised hogs, managed a PMU business and raised cattle. He was known for having a special way with animals, even bringing home the odd stray. Dad spent many hours putting up hay in the fields and there were many choice words spoken on days when the machinery broke down. But then again that wouldn’t have been Dad without a few choice words!

Dad had many interests. He enjoyed going to auctions and horse sales locally and as far away as B.C. and Amish country. He never missed going to the Portage Ex for the animals, horse shows and races. His daily routine used to include coffee and b.s. sessions at Co-op and later at Chicken Chef. Dad had a definite sweet tooth and would never turn down ice cream, Bounty bars and Timbits. He continued to enjoy his treats with the DCL staff during his sleepless nights.

Dad was a strong, stubborn hard worker. He perserved through many tough times. He was like the “energizer bunny” right to the end. He always lived the quote, “where there’s a will, there’s a way.” He had a quick wit and loved to tease others. The child in him returned anytime he was with his grandchildren. He and Mom taught all of us to have a strong sense of family. Our family is forever changed and we will miss him dearly.

Earl was predeceased by his loving wife of 65 years, Doreen who passed in November 2015; his parents, Dorothy and Thomas Johnston; sister Myrte Grouette; infant granddaughters Shauna Leigh and Terry Dawn McCorrister and grandson Quentin Harder.

He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his children: Sharon (Steve) McCorrister of Portage, Ralph (Dawn) Johnston of Dawson Creek, BC, Shelley (Danny) Frith of Portage; grandchildren: Jodi (Blaine), Chris, Jamie (Char), Orry, Caitlin (Ryan); great-grandchildren: Alleasha, Cassidy (Darryl),Cole, Chaley, Rhianna, Landon and Andrew; great-great-grandson Jesse James (JJ); Brothers: Tom Johnston, Frank (Clara)Johnston, Sid Johnston; sister-in-law Genie Johnston; along with many nephews, nieces and cousins.

A private graveside service for Doreen and Earl Johnston will be held in June at Hillside Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Dr. Tan and all DCL staff who made Dad feel at home and for the support given to both Dad and family over the past few weeks.

As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made in Earl’s memory to Douglas Campbell Lodge Foundation, c/o Portage District General Hospital, 150 9th St. SE, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3T6 or Southwinds Horse Rescue Inc. PO Box 123 Oakville MB R0H 0Y0.

“Country roads take me home, To the place I belong …”

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021