Andrew David Johnston

 

Andy passed away September 20, 2023 at Portage & District General Hospital, where he received care  for the past five weeks.   

Andy was the second son of Bob & Joyce Johnston, born December 18, 1950 in Neepawa, MB.  He attended High School at Gladstone, MB while working several jobs, one of which was working for John Hammond in the funeral home, as well as the local gift shop.  He also worked for Oscar Wallin, the local Case Dealer. 

After leaving high school he worked various jobs until 1974, Andy then began employment with the Co-op in Portage la Prairie.  He worked as the Hardware Manager at Co-op for 11 years, and then transferred to different towns and provinces; Altona, Saskatchewan, Boissevain, and Russell were he continued to hold the position of Hardware Manager.  Following his employment with the Co-op, Andy went to work for the Gendis Corporation, managing the SAAN Store in Killarney, MB, where we lived for 30 years.  Upon closure of the SAAN Store, he went back to the Co-op, working at Boundary Co-op for 10 years as a fuel truck driver, a job he really enjoyed and loved visiting with his customers.  Andy also owned half interest in a rental and custom business providing services with their Bobcat equipment. 

Andy married Debra Streick on August 3, 1974.  They had two sons, Ryan Johnston, born August 11, 1978 and Justin Johnston, born June 9, 1989.  They have also been blessed with two grandchildren; Rylene Johnston and Haydn Johnston. 

After both retiring, Andy and Debra decided to move to Portage la Prairie in 2016 to be closer to family.  Andy enjoyed his family and friends, always having time for a visit or giving their dogs a treat.  He also loved camping, playing cards, and deer hunting which he enjoyed every year.  Since moving back to Portage, he especially loved camping at Pauls’ farm, and helping him out around the farm. 

Andy was a community supporter and enjoyed being involved in different organizations.  He was a member of the Lions Club, and the Justice Committee while living in Killarney.  Andy and Debra enjoyed travelling,  and together travelled to such places as Cuba, Mexico and Vegas. 

Andy was preceded in death by his parents Bob and Joyce Johnston, and his brother Ken.

Andy is survived by his wife Debra, sons Ryan and Justin, grandchildren Rylene and Haydn, brother Alan (Joan) Johnston and their son Stephen, brother Larry (Francyne) Johnston and their daughter Sandra. 

Andy always enjoyed visiting with people, whether having a coffee, meal or enjoying a drink.  He also liked teasing his nieces and telling jokes. He will be missed by who knew him. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Central Plains Cancer Services, 318 Sask. Ave. E., Portage la Prairie, MB   R1N 1K8.  In honouring his wishes, family will celebrate his life privately. 

We all love you and will miss you!

Messages of condolences can be made online at www.omegafuneralhome.com.