Dear Johnston Family:
Well wow. What a good natured, heartily spirited fella Mr. Johnston was. He used to look like a hulkier stern Jimmy Carter to me as a wee child.
The Johnston home; one of my other Varsity homes from home. The countless, relentless, hilarious hard times he gave me:
“Klepit!” he’d hollar.
It took me a while to figure out I was lucky enough to have earned the privilege of his ribbings!!
By far, my fondest memory of Mr Johnston: he was my first legit heckler!!
Around age 17, I started taking singing lessons a few blocks from their home, beside the bus stop I’d wait alone at. I’d leave my evening lessons all inspired to sing but of course lacking all control, ha, so seeing no lights on in their house, no one on the streets, the coast was clear, I would softly let my voice loose then to full volume singing something (like U2: “Running to Stand Still” or more likely: “Music of the Night” from Phantom hahaha) there was usually pure silence around, so assuming no one could hear, I’d continue… hahaha well he’d be there listening, waiting for just the right crucial apex when I was really going for it, ha, then out of nowhere he’d blast out:
“Is that you Klepit??!! Keep that racket down Klepit!!!”
hahaha I was always caught off guard, still and silenced for a scared minute or two but couldn’t finally help but laugh my head off. It happened on a few occasions too ;)
Deepest respect to the Johnstons: You made sure I felt heard and supported after-school thru some very tough times growing up.
Gratitude.
Be the strong Women of Janet you are lucky to be.
Blessings to all of you. Honour Fred by always living and loving and laughing full force.
Sending out white light to you all and peace.
Love,
Alaric
(formerly Peter Klepik)
