LYLE JOHNSTON

Lyle James Johnston, born on February 26, 1933, in Port Arthur, was a man whose life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and indelible memories. On June 3, 2024, surrounded by wife Sharon, daughter Susan, son Stacey and granddaughter Lindsay, Lyle peacefully passed away, leaving a profound void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Lyle was the beloved son of John Johnston and Christina (Bremner) Johnston. He was preceded in death by his four sisters, Helen (Bill) Wilson, Verna (Johnny) Lindstrom, Wanda (Bill) Eckman, Doris (Larry) Filino, his brother Glen (Verta) Johnston, and survived by his first wife, Ethel Sault, sister-in-law Barbara Kukko and brother-in-law Cliff Ojala . Lyle is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Johnston, his devoted children, Kevin (Sandra), Susan (Steven) Raymond, and Stacey, along with his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family brought him immeasurable joy and purpose, shaping his life with love and warmth.

During his time on earth, Lyle found solace and camaraderie in the company of many nieces and nephews, as well as special friends, Henry and Annie Atkins, who were so kind, and when help was needed, they were always there. Brian Harju, Ron Niittynen, Don Kozub and Rebecca Everett. His marriage to Sharon on December 3, 2005, in Thunder Bay, ON, was a testament to his enduring capacity for love and commitment.

Lyle's courageous spirit shone brightly during his military service in the Korean War from June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953, with the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Airborne Division. His bravery and dedication were recognized with Paratrooper Wings and three esteemed medals, including the British Korean Medal, United Nations Service Medal for Korea, and the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal for Korea.

Beyond his military service, Lyle cultivated a life filled with rich hobbies and interests. He reveled in the great outdoors, spending countless summers at his cherished camp in Stanley, regaling loved ones with tales of his youth and adventures. Lyle's passion for working on vehicles was a testament to his industrious nature and innate talent.

His quick wit and infectious laughter could brighten any room, transforming ordinary moments into cherished memories. Lyle's remarkable ability to bring joy to others was a testament to his kind heart and generous spirit.

Retiring from Bruno's Contracting as a skilled heavy equipment operator and later a float truck driver, Lyle made lasting contributions within his professional sphere. His dedication to his work and unwavering work ethic left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A farewell service in honor of Lyle's life will be held in the Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 Cumberland St. N., on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 presided by Rev. Gordon Holroyd at 11:00 AM. Visitation for family and friends will begin one hour prior. For those not able to attend in person, the service will be streamed live at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca where condolences may be offered as well.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the Nurse Next Door, for your wonderful care, kindness and compassion. Dr. Nigro, Dr. Calonego and the nurses at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre also to Dr. Skunta and nurses at Hogarth Riverview Manor, Transitional Care Unit, for their compassionate care and support during Lyle's final days.

In the wake of Lyle's passing, his legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering strength will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his spirit soar freely, forever watching over those he held dear.

Rest in peace, dear Lyle