Alfred Johnston

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Alfred Johnston announce his sudden passing. Al was the eldest child of Ed and Jean Johnston and spent his childhood in Riverdale. Papa is survived by: his wife Verlene of 52 years; daughter Tannis (Bob) Gillespie; granddaughters Megan (Anthony) Frechette, Taryn and Robyn Gillespie; great-granddaughter Adria Frechette; sister Carol (Bob) LaJeunesse; brothers Bob and Irwin (Norma) Johnston; and brothers in-law Willie (Evelyne) and Lorne Beck and sister in-law Dianne Johnston. He is predeceased by his son Robbie (1989), parents Ed and Jean, brother Neil, brothers in-law George Beck and Roy Patry and sister in-law Margaret Patry. Papa spent his life in Thunder Bay. He started his career after leaving school in grade ten with the Department of Highways. He later worked with Lakehead Developers and the Ministry of Transportation before retiring in 1998. Throughout his life, Papa had many hobbies. He loved to garden and walk his dog, Teela, as well as refinishing furniture. One of Papa's favourite pass times was spending time with family and friends at camp on Shebandowan Lake. Whether it be boating, fishing, water or snow skiing, playing cribbage or just sitting by the fire and eating peanuts, Papa always enjoyed being with everyone at Shebandowan. A celebration of Papa's life will take place on Saturday June 26, 2012 in the Verdi Room of the DaVinci Centre at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Northern Cancer Fund or Thunder Bay District Humane Society would be appreciated. We all know you are fishing with Uncle Robbie now, but know you will be missed Papa. Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com "