Obituary of Wendell Johnston

JOHNSTONIt is with heavy hearts that the family of Wendell Isherwood Johnston announce his passing on July 11, 2015 at the Rosetown Hospital after a brief illness. Wendell was born in Rosetown, Saskatchewan on July 14, 1929 to Alta (née Isherwood) and Wilson Johnston. Wendell grew up on the family farm with his sister Elda and his brother Bill. Wendell took over the family farm after his father''s passing. Wendell married Joan Bruce on July 12, 1952 and together they had four children, Wendy, Ward, Kathryn and Donna. Wendell was a very busy man. He entered the University of Saskatchewan at the age of 16 where he obtained his Bachelor of Agricultural Engineering degree. Along with farming he also had a house moving business and raised livestock. Over the course of his life he also obtained his real estate license, custom farmed in the United States, was projectionist at the Rosetown Unique Theatre, drove school bus, and ran various businesses. Wendell was actively involved with the New Democratic Party at the local, Provincial, and National level. He was also a lifetime member of both the Zealandia United Church and Elks, and served on the Rosetown School Board. He enjoyed coaching hockey for many years in Zealandia. Wendell was very proud of the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Wendell and Joan spent countless hours travelling throughout Canada and the United States watching hockey, soccer and dancing. Wendell is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Joan, his children Wendy, Ward (Judy), Kathryn (Greg) and Donna (Kevin). He is also survived by his brother Bill (Rita), his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Maxine and Len Laird as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. His pride and joy were his nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Wendell was predeceased by his father, Wilson Talmage Johnston, his mother, Alta Bertha (née Isherwood), and his sister, Elda (née Johnston) Windsor. Also passing before Wendell were numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, aunts and uncles. The Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at the Rosetown United Church. Interment will be held at the Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Saskatoon, SK., following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Zealandia United Church or the Rosetown United Church. To send online condolences please visit shanidarfuneralservices.com. Arrangements entrusted to Pierre A. Charpentier.