Denise Marie Johnston

Denise Marie (Trietch) Johnston age 67, of Napoleon died December 13, 2025 at the Cleveland Clinic.

Denise was born on February 24, 1958, to Ray and Pauline Trietsch. She grew up in Holgate, Ohio, and graduated from Holgate High School in 1976. For twenty years, she dedicated herself to her work at Napco Plastics. She later spent 19 years in the cafeteria at Napoleon Area City Schools, where she found real joy in serving students. Denise loved being around kids, and it showed in every meal she made and every friendly moment she shared. The connections she built there meant the world to her.

One of the greatest joys of Denise’s life was being a grandmother to her beloved granddaughter, Charlotte Miller. Their bond brought her endless happiness. Family was at the center of everything she did. She is survived by her loving husband, Mark Johnston; her children, Sara Miller of Uniontown, Ohio, and Dustin (Bryan) Bove-Wimberley of Toledo; and her stepson, Ryan Johnston of Delaware, Ohio. She also leaves behind her siblings, David (Brenda) Trietch of Liberty Center and Debra (Eldon) Bostelman of Defiance, and many nieces and nephews.

Denise was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Pauline (Winnow) Trietsch; her brother, Dennis Trietsch; her sister-in-law, Vicki Trietsch; her brother-in-law, Dan Wimberley; and her first husband, Douglas Wimberley. Their memories stayed close to her heart throughout her life.

Denise touched many people with her kindness, her steady presence, and her genuine care for others. She will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories on December 20, 2025, at the Zachrich Family Funeral Home in Holgate, Ohio, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery in Napoleon.

As we remember Denise, we honor not only the work she did but the love she gave so freely. She will always hold a place in our hearts. In her memory, the family welcomes donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or a charity that is meaningful to you.