Thomas Junior Johnston's Obituary
Thomas Junior Johnston was born on April 4, 1933 in Blockton, Iowa, to Thomas and Wavie Ralston Johnston. He died at his home in Columbia City, Oregon, on January 10, 2009. He was 75 years old.
Tom, as he was always known; joined the Air Force to serve his country. After an honorable discharge; he came back to Iowa and worked as a Fireman for the Des Moines Fire Department. In the late 1960's he moved to Edmonds, Washington and worked for the Boeing and Edmonds Fire Departments. After an injury ended his firefighting career; he worked as a loss control investigator for several insurance companies.
Helping people was second nature. Tom was a past Master of the Royal Arch Masonic Lodge; a member of the Elks Lodge, and a lay minister of the Episcopal Church. He was also very active with both the Cursillo and Kairos ministries.
In 1999 he and his wife, Beth; moved to Florence, Oregon where they enjoyed camping, and participating in community theatre. Tom was a natural on stage and very supportive behind the scenes. He also enjoyed cooking, traveling, and playing games. He'll be remembered for his ability to make people laugh.
In 2007 Tom and Beth moved to Columbia City, Oregon to be closer to family and medical facilities.
Tom is survived by his wife, Beth; children: Sharon Gastkill of Lynnwood, Washington and Kirby D. Johnston of Kennesaw, Georgia; step-sons: Douglas A. White of Florence, Charles E. White of Marysville, Washington, Kenneth P. White and David T. White both of Seattle, and Scott A. White of Bellingham, Washington; and a brother, Gary Johnston of Des Moines, Iowa; and 11 grandchildren.
A Memorial Service is scheduled for Saturday, January 24 at 3:00 PM at St. Albans Episcopal Church in Edmonds, Washington. A Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 11:00 AM at the Lutheran Church in Florence, Oregon.
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