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David Johnston Obituary
1937 - 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of David Edward Johnston, on Tuesday September 17, 2024, at the age of 87 years. Dave was born in Tisdale, Saskatchewan to parents, Bill and Jean Johnston. When he was still young, his family decided to pack up and move to Victoria, British Columbia; and ever since, Dave considered himself a proud Victorian.
Dave was a businessman and entrepreneur, running his own business in tele-communications for over 35 years. His work took him coast to coast, meeting many interesting characters along the way. One such character being his beloved wife of nearly 23 years, Deborah; whom he met in his travels while she worked as a flight attendant. Together the couple travelled the globe and their own backyard of Vancouver Island, at one point even living in an RV for several months while they searched for their next landing pad.
Dave was an avid boater and lover of the sea. When someone would visit from out of town, he was sure to take them on his boat to see the best of Victoria, making sure they got an island fishing experience. Whether it was fishing for salmon or setting traps for crabs & prawns, Dave loved it all equally while sharing it with those around him. He cruised many nautical miles on his pride and joy, "The Wavemaker", a 60 ft yacht he personally refurbished going as far as River's Inlet near Haida Gwaii several times.
Dave's children and grandchildren have many fond memories of life on the water with him over the years. Dave was a kind, generous and loyal man, never missing the chance to offer a helping hand. He was a lover of animals and nature, always appreciative of the beauty around him. All who knew him will miss his big heart, contagious smile and passion for life.
Dave will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Deborah Knowles; his daughters, Kathy (Brad) McGaw, and Tricia (Gerry) Schley; his grandchildren, Stephen and Angela Johnston, Chelsea (Alex) Zdeb, Jaclyn (Jamie) Weremi, Colton and Jaiden Dorio; his great grandchildren, Ryder and Caiden Johnston, Walker Weremi, Brexlea and Alena Zdeb; as well as extended family. He is predeceased by his parents, Bill and Jean; as well as his son, Trevor.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation in Dave's name would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family at
www.mccallgardens.com
Memories and Condolences
for David Johnston
3 Entries
Jackie Thame (Fussey)
September 25, 2024
To daughters... Kathy & Tricia. Not sure if you remember our family "Fussey´s". We lived door to Barb & Dave back in the sixties, Trevor & Kathy were my ring bearer and flower girl, over 50yrs ago now. Your father was a very personable man and I have many fond memories of those many celebrations in those days gone by and The Cordova Bay house too! Hopefully you find peace and memories to guide you thru this trying time...very sorry for your loss and sending love & hugs to both of you and your families.
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Don & Carol Halliday
September 23, 2024
Our condolences to Debbie and family.
We had a few glasses of wine together at our Capital City Yacht Club cruises.
My most memorable moment with Dave was in the early `70s when I hit a rock with my boat and was
Sinking, Dave came to my rescue and towed me in.
Smooth sailing Dave on your final voyage.
Astrid (Strandlie) Doidge
September 21, 2024
Astrid Doidge (nee Strandlie) moved from Tisdale where I was born in 1937 to Victoria in 1947. Our parents (Bill and Jean and mine George and Flo) were good friends. Doug and I were married 32 years when he died in 1991. My sincere condolences- it is not easy but with families, good friends and volunteering time passes. God Bless.
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