Bruce Wayne Johnston

Bruce Wayne Johnston, aged 60, passed away very unexpectedly on June 18, 2024, in Fort Collins, CO. Born on July 8, 1963, in Minneapolis Minnesota, he was incredibly inconsiderate in not writing his own obituary before he died. He also didn't clean out the barn that is falling down, which his children now have to deal with.
In his younger years, Bruce was an active member of 4-H, and loved horses. He met his wife, Linda in Sonrise Singers at First Presbyterian Church. Linda sang in the choir and Bruce played bass.
After serving in the Air Force, Bruce returned from England with his wife Linda and their daughter Dani. The arrival of their son Ben in 1990 completed their family. There were also several dogs he enjoyed and a cat he never wanted or liked. After a few odd jobs, Bruce worked in dental prosthetics with his father-in-law, Bill, before founding a remodeling business in 1997. Bruce's work brought him many lifelong friends, and he was lucky to have found a job that brought him satisfaction and joy. Also annoyance and frustration, but mostly satisfaction. He liked what he did so much, he and Linda bought a house that was literally falling down and restored it to the beautiful home they shared together for decades. It is mostly done... only a missing bannister and some window trim.
Bruce enjoyed the outdoors and a good dad joke. Or really any joke, especially if it was off color or super dark. He recently started riding motorcycles again, enjoyed woodworking and a good scotch. His sarcastic wit was always tempered with a big goofy grin and a contagious laugh.
Bruce loved his family, and was devoted to his wife when her health failed. In his children, he instilled a strong work ethic and fierce independence (sometimes to their detriment). He constantly tried to embarrass his children with his antics, and much to his disappointment succeeded less and less later in life.
While he missed her dearly, after Linda passed Bruce was hopeful and excited about the future. He had numerous conversations with his children and many friends about what that might look like. He talked about traveling again, and rebuilding some traditions that had been put on hold when Linda was sick. As much as he would hate how melancholy the sentiment is, his children are devastated by the loss of time, joy and yelling at kids to get off their lawn with their dad.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and David Johnston, and his wife, Linda. He is survived by his children, Danielle Weedin (Eric) and Benjamin Johnston; brothers, Bob (Pat) and Verne Johnston; sister, Susan Salisbury (John); father-in-law, Bill Massey; brother in law Greg (Mary Beth) and numerous nephews and a niece.
Since Bruce passed so soon after Linda, a celebration of both of their lives will be held on July 13th from 11am to 3pm at their home, 3610 North Taft Hill Road in Fort Collins. Bruce wanted to be remembered with jokes, and people sharing ridiculous stories making fun of him. Guests are encouraged to wear bright floral prints, or something silly like short shorts and knee socks with sandals. The celebration will be outside, comfortable flats are recommended. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice. Dani's favorites are animal rescues and Ben had no opinion. Seriously, please don't send flowers.
Vessey Funeral Service - Fort Collins