William L. Johnston

William (Bill) Johnston, 91 (almost 92!) of Shelby Township, MI passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024. He was born on November 2, 1932, the son of Leo and Agnes Johnston, both of whom predeceased him; and brother to Jim (Joan) Johnston and Eileen Harold. Bill was a proud Army veteran who served during the Korean War. On August 16, 1958, William was united in marriage to Marlene, his beloved wife of over 64 years, and raised 5 children together. Marlene passed away on April 18, 2023. Bill was a mechanical engineer who spent his entire career in the aerospace industry but was afraid to fly! Once he retired, he became a volunteer for St. Vincent DePaul delivering meals to those in need. He was deeply religious in his Catholic faith and spent his time attending daily mass praying for his family and lighting candles anytime he was worried about them. He attended a Capuchin Retreat for many years and was blessed by Father Solanus Casey when he was very young, which we believe gave him his very long, healthy life. Bill cherished his summers spent at a family farm in London, Ontario, when he was young and was a loyal hockey fan, cheering along with his Canadian relatives. He was quiet, thoughtful, intelligent, generous and the kindest man to everyone, and had the best sense of humor being known for his many funny quotes that we all use often. Bill was an avid reader of fiction and shared his love of Reader's Digest with his children. He was a strong supporter of his family's dreams, always letting them know how proud he was of them. He loved his family deeply and made each one feel like they were his favorite. Left to cherish his memory are his children: Mary (Gary) Conklin; Joseph (Lisa) Johnston; Judy Johnston (Joe Iacopelli); Michael (Lisa) Johnston, and Amy (Tom) Statly. He was also abundantly blessed with 10 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and the love of many other family members and dear friends. Memorial services will be held at the Wm. Sullivan and Son Funeral Directors, 8459 Hall Road (3 Blks E. of Van Dyke) Utica, MI on October 11. 2024 beginning at 1pm. The family will be receiving guests beginning 11am and invite them to stay for the service. The family asks that you share a memory at sullivanfuneraldirectors.com

William L. Johnston

November 2, 1932 - October 5, 2024