Kenneth E. Johnston

1946 - 2022

Johnston Kenneth E. Jan. 4, 1946 – Feb. 3, 2021 February 3, 2022 marked the one-year anniversary of the passing of KENNETH JOHNSTON. Kenny spent the last five-plus years courageously fighting a battle against PSP, a terrible debilitating disease. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by those he loved. The son of Scottish immigrants, he was born and raised in the Kensington section of Philadelphia. After graduating from high school, he joined the Army where he served his time in Germany. Upon his return from Germany, he relocated to San Diego, CA to be near his older brother, Sonnie. Kenny spent 37 years working at the NASSCO Shipyard, retiring in 2011. His jobs included sheet metal fitting, along with being a Union Steward for Ironworkers Local 627, then Chief Shop Steward for Boilermakers Local 1998. Many employees enjoyed a better quality of work life, as well as greater retirement benefits, because of his efforts. In 1979 Kenny married Judy Howard, his loving wife of 41 years. Together they enjoyed traveling, entertaining and many wonderful staycations. He also enjoyed getting together with friends from time to time for a good game of poker and a good drink. A terrific athlete, he played softball with the senior league into retirement. He cherished life with all its ups and down. Although Kenny spent most of his life in California, he never forgot his friends from Swanson Street (Dave and Jay Atkinson, Leonard Fox, Ray Williams, Jimmy Garvey, Michael and Donny Grosso). He often talked about the great times they shared growing up on those small streets in Kensington. Kenny was a kind and gentle soul with a big heart who would give you the shirt off his back. He'll be remembered for his beautiful smile, hearty laugh, a great sense of humor and love of family. He is preceded in death by his parents John (Jack) and Isabella (Isa), his brother John (Sonnie), sisters Sandra Johnston, Roseanne Cory, Mary Stewart, brother-in-laws John Stewart, John Diviny, niece Roseanne Cory, nephew John Stewart, Jr. and stepson Bill Howard. He is survived by his wife, Judy Johnston, sisters Johanna Cimino (Ernie), Lorraine Dwyer (Luke), Retta Diviny, brother-in-law Don Cory and many loving nieces and nephews. Kenny will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at Calvary Chapel.