Hamilton – Donald Lee Johnston, 57, died on Thursday, January 23, 2014, due to multiple medical issues at the St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.
He was born to Goldie Lee (Lewis) and Clarence H. “Slick” Johnston on Friday, March 30, 1956, in Baker, Oregon.
First a logger by family tradition, Don was able to grow and change with the times. He owned a hardware store in Wallowa County, Oregon and expanded to Milwaukie, Oregon. Don eventually found his way into banking.
At the time of his death, he was working for American Federal Savings Bank in Hamilton, MT.
Don was a United States Marine, serving from 1974 to 1976 with the Headquarters Co, 1st Combat Engineers, 1st DSG, 1st Marine Division.
Don enjoyed serving the community as a “Rotarian” in the Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, BBIA, Youth Home of Montana and numerous other community services.
He left an indelible mark, on everyone who met him.
He is survived by his wife, Karla D. Johnston of Hamilton; children: Melissa Trujillo, Sara Juniper and Jeremy Johnston; grandchildren: Maykayla Johnston, Nathaniel Juniper and Aaron Hoarau.
Don and Karla made many friends in the Wilds of Montana. Their “Family” of friends include:
Po Hemry, Sara Cox, Lauren Cox, Kate Cox, Tim Cox, Elijah Hemry, and Noah Hemry.
Don and Karla have loved and lived the perfect life. “I will carry on” for both of us my love, I’ve got your six, at ease.
A memorial service with Marine Corp Funeral Honors will take place on Saturday, February 1 at 5 p.m. (1700 hours) at the City Hall/Bedford Building, 223 S. 2nd Street in Hamilton. A reception will follow in the Hall.
Brothers Mortuary and Crematory is assisting the family with services. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.