David (Dave) Johnston

David (Dave) Johnston
September 11, 1947- March 13, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Dave Johnston share that he chose to end his long and difficult battle with cancer on March 13, 2024. Left to mourn this loss are his loving partner, Alex Hochachka; daughters, Sonja Fitzsimons (Brian), Maija Johnston (Wes) and son Dane Johnston; grandchildren Kailey and Kaydence Fitzsimons, Tayler Johnston Friend and Wyatt Boisson; sister Nancy Faulder (Ken) and family of Winnipeg, MB.

Dad was born in Toronto, ON on September 11, 1947 to Frederick and Helen Johnston. He grew up with a love of animals (a dog has always been at his side), the outdoors and sports. This led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Guelph, where he competed on both the football and wrestling teams. Upon graduation Dad entered into a life of public service, working for the government of Ontario and later the provincial government of Alberta.

Dad enjoyed an active lifestyle that included running, cross country skiing, canoeing/kayaking, hiking, hunting, fishing, gardening and later walking. He and Alex met through their walking club and enjoyed spending time tending their acreage and walking Maggie, their black lab cross. He generously gave his time to coaching youth football and soccer. He was also a volunteer for the annual Birkebeiner ski race for many years. Dad thoroughly enjoyed camping, and all of his family have spent time on road trips with him to various locations spanning BC through ON, and into the US. Outdoors was where he was the happiest. In his final years, when he was forced to slow down, he began to watch a lot of hockey and football, enjoying a friendly wager with Alex during playoff seasons.

There was seemingly nothing Dad couldn’t do once he set his mind to learn a new skill- nature photography, soapstone carving, stained glass art, wine and beer making, baking, canning and the list goes on. Getting produce from Dad’s garden was always a treat, helping digging and washing the fruits of his labor was all he asked in return. His glazed ham will never be replicated!

He loved each of us dearly and we are going to be a bit adrift without him.

The family would like to thank the staff in the Acute Care ward at the Tofield Health Centre for their compassionate care during Dad’s final days.

Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Edmonton Humane Society in his name would be appreciated.

We are looking forward to sharing memories and stories about Dad at his Celebration of Life this summer. 

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