HUGH ALLAN "AL" JOHNSTONE

(January 9, 1940 - August 16, 2025) Hugh Allan "Al" Johnstone, LCol. (ret'd), C.D., passed away peacefully in hospice, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was predeceased by his parents, Hugh and Audrey; and sister, Audrey-Anne. Al leaves behind his loving wife, Kay, and partner of 60 years; daughters, Liz (Rory) and Andrea (Mark); and grandchildren, Thomas, Emma, Charlie and Cole. He was a devoted and loving son, uncle, brother-in-law, and dear friend to so many. Al grew up in Capreol, Ontario, before moving to Toronto to attend Ryerson Polytechnic Institute. He joined the RCAF after graduation, and served a brief tour before being transferred to the reserve list. Al and Kay were married in 1965 and settled in Markham, where they raised their two daughters. Al's successful business career began as a retailer (T. Eaton Co), and later a sales representative working with some of the industry icons (G.E., Canadian Tire, Casio). In 1985, he and his partner co-founded Salton Canada, which they built for 22 years prior to his retirement. In 2008, Al received recognition for his career in business being inducted into the Canadian Hardware and Housewares Hall of Fame. During this time he became more active with the Reserves and the Air Cadet League of Canada and rose through the ranks, finally retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Al was a lifelong member of the Masonic Order and dedicated member of the Founders 1888 Unit of the Rameses Shrine. He very much treasured his relationships within this brotherhood. Even with all of his business and personal accomplishments, Al was never happier than when he was driving his tractor on the Kahshe Lake property. The family would like to thank the staff at the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre, Southlake Regional Hospital and the Margaret Bahen Hospice for their professionalism, dedication and superior care he received. Family and friends are welcome to join us in remembering Al at the Kane-Jerrett Funeral Home, 8088 Yonge Street, Thornhill, ON. Visitation to occur on Thursday, August 21st, from 6 - 8 p.m. Funeral to take place on Friday, August 22nd, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Al's name to the Regional Cancer Centre (Southlake Hospital), Margaret Bahen Hospice or the Shriner's Hospitals for Children Canada.