Robert Ervin “Bob” Johnston of Kincardine died peacefully, Dec. 4, 2022, at the age of 89. Cherished husband of Elizabeth “Betty” Johnston for 68 years. She died just a few weeks ago, Oct. 25, 2022. Beloved father of Karen Langen (Jens), Kevin, Douglas (Heather) and Daniel (Paula). Fondly remembered by his eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Bob was born Jan. 17, 1933, the eldest child of Eva and George Johnston. His younger sister, Joan Fletcher, predeceased him in 2016. Bob and Joan grew up in Ripley, where their father had a grocery store. From 1955 until one year ago, Bob and Betty lived in Kincardine. Bob had many different occupations in his working life. He worked for CN Rail, he and his father had an IGA grocery store on Queen Street, Kincardine, for many years. Later, he had a Ski-doo dealership, was a long-haul truck driver, and then worked for the Town of Kincardine in the water management department until his retirement. He had a gift for working with mechanical things, which served him well throughout his life. He could repair or build almost anything. In 1979, Betty and Bob started boating and it became a real passion for them. They kept their boat in a marina near Orillia and began exploring the beautiful Trent-Severn waterway and Georgian Bay. They made a lot of friends there and went on many boating trips with them. He became the go-to guy for anyone having problems with their boat and was always happy to help. They had many stories to tell about the beautiful places they had discovered and all the fun they’d had with their travelling companions. Our whole family has wonderful memories of time spent together on their boat. Bob was a friendly, outgoing person with an amazing memory for local history and people. On any errand in town, he was certain to meet someone he knew, and he always remembered names and details about them and their families. He thoroughly enjoyed his “coffee buddies” at Tim’s, sharing stories and solving the world’s problems. Betty and Bob had many long-time friends in Kincardine and there was always lots of laughter when they were together. Most of all, he was a proud father and grandfather, and a devoted husband to his dear Betty. Over the years, through happy times and difficult times, they took care of each other and built a good life together. The Johnston family is enormously grateful to the wonderful staff at the Southampton Care Centre for the compassionate care and support for Betty and Bob. We also want to express our thanks to Dr Marriott and the nurses at the Southampton Hospital. Visitation will be held at the Davey-Linklater Funeral Home in Kincardine, Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, from 12:30-2 p.m.. The memorial service will follow at 2:30 p.m. Refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bob’s memory to the Kincardine Food Bank. |
