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ROBERT ALLAN (AL) JOHNSTON
Born: May 17, 1942
Date of Passing: Nov 15, 2014
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
ROBERT ALLAN (AL) JOHNSTON With heavy hearts, the family announces Al's passing at the Neepawa Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at the age of 72. Devoted and caring husband to Bea (nee Hanke), of 49 years. Loving and supportive father of Jodi (Rich Carradice), Doug and Robert. Cherished Papa of Erin (and special friend Jared) and Connor Carradice. Devoted brother to Maryanne (Kip Frater) and Ruth (Dennis Ostafichuk). Loving brother-in-law to Lou (Bud Johnson), Rich (Ruth Hanke), Red Schellenberg (Gary McKinnon), Mike Whelan, Clara Fischer, Albert Hanke, Bea Hanke and Jean Hanke. Uncle Al to many nieces, nephews and their spouses, as well as many special cousins. Born May 17, 1942 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Bob and Edith, Al was the eldest of three children, brother to Maryanne and Ruth. He grew up on a farm near Emerson and then following the 1950 flood, the family moved into town. He left the farming life in his late teens, but returned to combining on a part-time basis later in life, which he continued to do into his retirement. Even during his chemo treatments this fall, he continued combine. Al had a number of careers throughout his working life. His last job took him all over the world including Saudi Arabia, Brazil, England, ships in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland and Norway, and extensively throughout the US. Sports played a big part in Al's life, especially hockey, horse racing and golf. He spent his youth playing hockey which is where he developed his lifelong passion for his favourite team the Montreal Canadiens. Golf held a special place in Al's heart, whether it was playing, coordinating leagues, watching the pros or planting flowers at the course. He was dedicated to the beautification of the Neepawa Golf Course. Al and Bea retired to Neepawa and spent their winters in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, enjoying the sun and the great friends they met there. Those were cherished relationships. Al was especially proud of his children and grandchildren. He took great joy in watching their sporting events, school plays and music recitals. He was a constant supporter and their quiet cheerleader. He had a special relationship with Bea's sister Lou, who was incredibly supportive since his cancer diagnosis. For this, our family is truly grateful. The family extends special thanks to Dr. Rob Poettcker, Dr. Brian Milligan of the Neepawa Hospital, Dr. Gary Harding of CancerCare Manitoba, Debbie (his Cancer Navigator), the chemo nurses, as well as the nursing staff at the Neepawa Hospital. They are second to none. We are truly grateful for the care and compassion he received. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Al's life will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2014 at 2:00 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion in Neepawa. A private interment will be held at the Emerson Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba, Neepawa's Palliative Care Program or the charity of choice.
Publish Date: Nov 19, 2014
ROBERT ALLAN (AL) JOHNSTON On Saturday, November 15, 2014, Al died at the Neepawa Hospital at the age of 72 years. A longer obituary notice will follow. White's Funeral Home in Neepawa is in care of arrangements.
Publish Date: Nov 18, 2014

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 19, 2014
Condolences & Memories (10 entries)
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Our sincere condolences to Bea, Jodi, Rich, Doug, Robert, Erin, Connor, Liz, Maryanne, Kip & to all the people that had the priviledge of knowing and loving our Dear Brother. He really was one of a kind, and we will probably never meet any one like him in years to come. His passing a left a huge hole in our hearts & so hope our memories of him will help us get through this next journey. Strength to all that are travelling this road. We both loved him dearly & his memory will be with us forever. Love, Ruth & Dennis(Sister & Brother-in-Law) - Posted by: Ruth & Dennis Ostafichuk (Sister & Brother-in-Law) on: Nov 25, 2014
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Dear Bea and Family, So sorry to hear of Al's passing. Wishing you Comfort and Peace. Extending our Sincere Sympathy and Friendship. Geraldine Thompson and Frieda Sheets. - Posted by: Geraldine Thompson and Frieda Sheets (Friend) on: Nov 23, 2014
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Bea and entire Johnston family We are thinking and praying for you all during these difficult days. We love you and we love uncle Al God bless, Rachel, Barry, Emma and Aidan - Posted by: Rachel low (Niece in law) on: Nov 21, 2014
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Dear Bea, Maryanne & Ruthie & your families. We are so Sorry to Hear of Allan's passing. Sorry we can't be with you on Thurs. but you will be in our thoughts and prayers. Fond memories of Allan during our 4h years, and the teenage dances. He was such a tease. - Posted by: Diana & Gordie Breckon (Friend) on: Nov 19, 2014
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Bea and Family - In what seem your darkest hours, may you find comfort in knowing that someone shares your sorrows. It is very difficult to lose someone as dear as your beloved Al, but watching him suffer is equally as difficult. Cherish all the memories that he left with you - this will give you the strength to carry on without him. My deepest sympathy to you all. Memories are forever, you are in my thoughts & prayers. Now you have a guardian angel watching over you...all my love, Phyllis - Posted by: Phyllis Nikiforuk (Friend) on: Nov 19, 2014
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Dear Bea and all the Family, it is with sad heart I learned of Al's passing. Words cannot express the deep respect I have for knowing Al since I was a little child. We were boyhood friends and remained friends our entire lives. I was at your wedding and had the pleasure of seeing you and Al many times over the years. Even though we lived far apart I always felt close to you both. I will miss my boyhood friend and know you took great care of him for all these years. My sincere condolences to you and all your family. Dean Beckstead and Family. - Posted by: Dean Beckstead (friend for a long time) on: Nov 19, 2014
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Remembering the wonderful and happy times with Al....I can still hear his hearty laugh! Thinking of all the family at this time. - Posted by: Deeney Hogarth (friend) on: Nov 19, 2014
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Bea, I am so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. - Posted by: Shauna Dueck (Friend) on: Nov 19, 2014
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Deepest condolences to Bea, MaryAnn, Ruthie and family. I just read Allen's obituary and it was so nice to learn about the wonderful life he had. I remember him as a quiet and shy teenager growing up in Emerson. Then later our paths crossed when I was the shy, nervous new employee at the B of M. He was always at work early and it was so comforting to see his reassuring smile when I came to work every morning. Happy memories of our loved ones always help us through sad times. - Posted by: Pauline Johnston (Cousin) on: Nov 19, 2014
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Bea, Jody, Doug & Robert We are so sorry for your loss. Al was such a kind caring man. Our thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Laurie & George Saunders (Friend) on: Nov 18, 2014