Ronald Johnston

JOHNSTON, Ronald David June 10, 1953 - August 5, 2010 Beloved husband, father and friend, Ronald David Johnston died suddenly in a tragic flying accident on Thursday, August 5, 2010. The eldest son of Dr. Blain and Joan Johnston, Ron grew up in Thompson, Manitoba. The pioneering spirit that made the Johnston's a founding family of Thompson was an integral part of Ron and he returned to the North often. Ron received his Bachelor of Commerce Honours Degree from the University of Manitoba in 1975 and moved to Calgary in 1976. He never wavered in his belief that the energy and opportunity found in Calgary made it one of the best places in the world to live. For over twenty-five years Ron worked in the investment industry; holding positions of vice president, partner and director at various times. Since 2005 Ron worked as CEO of Expander Energy Inc., a private alternative energy company. Ron sat on the Board of Directors of many companies and organizations throughout his career and involved himself in many fund-raising activities benefiting groups and charities near to his heart. At his best when learning something new, Ron's wide-ranging interests drew him to people and opportunities that intrigued, stimulated and challenged him. He viewed life as a never-ending quest for knowledge and approached it with both an open mind and an open heart. Ron loved to fly, attaining a multi-engine IFR night rating and taking to the skies at every available opportunity. He also enjoyed time spent boating, fishing and going to movies. An avid sports fan (particularly golf, hockey and football) Ron was equally comfortable as participant, spectator or coach. He naturally encouraged excellence in himself and those around him and coached his children's different teams for over ten years. His family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all of the professionals and volunteers who took part in the search and rescue efforts, the Nova Scotia RCMP, members of the TSB and the recovery teams who all dealt with our family with compassion and professionalism. Collectively and as individuals they, along with the incredible people of Nova Scotia, made an overwhelming situation bearable. Ron leaves behind his wife Laurie, son Ryan and wife Aynsley, daughters Lindsay and Paige and the light of Ron's life, grandson Tiernan; brothers Sandy and Tim, sisters Tannis and Tara; a much loved extended family including his parents-in-law Dee and Ed Bollinger; and a wide circle of friends and colleagues. We will all miss his kindness, empathy and passion for life. Ron was predeceased by his parents and brother Ricky. In memory of Ron we ask that consideration be given to donating to a charity that exemplifies many of the principles that Ron held dear: Right to Play. ( donations@righttoplay.com). A Celebration of Life will be held at Bethany Chapel, 3333 Richardson Way S.W. (Telephone 403-249-8605) on Friday, August 27 at 11:00 a.m. Please forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com . In living memory of Ron Johnston, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: 403-243-8200.