John Ernest Johnston

    John Ernest Johnston, age 86, of Alma, MI, passed away Thursday, March 7, 2024.

     A Celebration of Life will be held at the Maple Room at the Shepherd Bar and Restaurant, 324 West Wright Avenue, Shepherd, MI 48883, on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 11:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. with Military Honors at 11:00 A.M.  

     John was born in Big Rapids, Michigan on April 30, 1937, the son of John and Lolabel (Bruce) Johnston.  He married Lois J. "Sandy" Whittemore on May 5, 1962, in Las Vegas, Nevada.  They were blessed with fifty-seven years of marriage, prior to her passing on May 25, 2019. 

     John faithfully served his country in the U.S. Navy from October 1956 to October 1986. He retired as a Master Chief Quartermaster.  John was a member of the VFW and the American Legion. 

     He is survived by his daughter Patti Johnston of Alma, MI; his son David and Diana Johnston of Chesapeake, VA; five grandchildren: Destiny and Jeremy Bennett of Windsor, CO; Ashley Falcone of Alma, MI; Frannie Seeley of Sumner, MI; David and Cassie Wetmore of Raleigh, NC; Darcy Johnston of Chesapeake, VA; three great-grandchildren Acadian Seeley, Maverick Shock, and Danica Wetmore; and sister Pat and Jim Schafer of Mt. Pleasant, MI. John was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sandy, and four brothers:  Mark, Bruce, Gail and Steve Johnston

     Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.