JAMES LAWRENCE (LAURIE) JOHNSTON (LAURIE)

Condolences & Memories (4 entries)

• Dear Michael, I am writing to offer my condolences on the passing of your uncle, Laurie Johnston. I have known Laurie for many year as a member of St. Andrew's River Heights United Church. He was, as you know, a quiet and thoughtful man, but always generous in his written appreciation when he enjoyed the choir's singing. I would also chat briefly with him when we met at the Pan Am Pool. He would be coming in from swimming, I from running. We celebrated our good health and good fortune. After his nasty fall, I started to visit him in Seven Oaks, and then the Shaftsbury. We would have good visits then. I learned about his amazing career in pharmacy and gained respect for his wise and gentle nature. He was so frustrated with his physical condition and worked so hard to try and regain full mobility. I remember well the day he showed me how well he could "run" down the hall pushing his walker. The last time I saw Laurie was on November 19. I was saddened to see how he had deteriorated. I felt that he was trying to communicate with me but I could not make out anything he was trying to say. He was visibly distressed and all I could do was to hold his hand until he quickly went to sleep. In earlier days and visits I would ask him if he wanted me to pray with him and he always readily agreed. You and I did talk once during this time. I am hopping to see you at the memorial service. - Posted by: Clark Brownlee (Friend) on: Jan 02, 2019

• On Sunday, December 16 we had our Memory Tree Service where we lit the Advent Candles and white lights in honor of those who have passed. A Light was purchased in honor of Laurie Johnston and shines brightly at 255 Oak Street on the tree outside the church doors on Oak Street. It is a fond reminder in memory of those we love who have gone before us. Blessings this Christmas time. Rev. Karen Lumley - Posted by: Rev. Karen Lumley (Minister) on: Dec 19, 2018

• My condolescences to you Michael and Margo in the loss of your uncle . Laurie was a member of the church where I was privelged and honoured to get to know him over the past 10 years. Laurie was a gentle, quiet man with a strong faith. He loved his walks outside when he was able and then inside the Shaftesbury later in years. Laurie was a faithful attender until his health did not allow him to attend anymore. He is missed at the church by other members . I will miss Laurie and know he is now resting in peace, free from all pain and suffering forever loved and protected, wrapped in the arms of his loving God. Rest in God’s peace Laurie and again my condolescences to you Michael and Margo. My prayers go out to both of you. - Posted by: Rev. Karen Lumley (Minister) on: Dec 15, 2018

• Dear Michael and family, I am sorry for your losses over the past 2 years. Your amazing parents and now Laurie. I will always remember the first email, the first phone call, and the first meeting I had with Laurie Johnston. He was a great man. He was as principled a person as I've ever met. He made the world better. He is unforgettable. I will also remember the many lunches and walks and visits we shared in the years following. He made me better too and I will miss my friend. I look forward to sharing in a remembrance of his life in the spring. - Posted by: Patti Smith (Friend) on: Dec 11, 2018