Obituary of James Donald Johnston

It is with great sadness that the family of James Donald Johnston announce his peaceful passing at home on July 30, 2006, at the age of 65 years. Born on May 13, 1941 in Moncton, New Brunswick, Don was the middle of three children. In 1963, Don graduated from UNB with a BSc before marrying Dorothy Lawson. He then attended Dalhousie University where he undertook the role of class president and completed his Medical degree. In 1981, he completed his MSc at the University of London in England. Don served with the Canadian Military and was based in Germany, Gagetown, NB, Chatham, NB and Calgary, AB. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel and was made an Honorary Colonel with the 15 Medical Company in Edmonton, AB. He was also an active board member with the Alberta branch of the Last Post Fund. After many moves with the military and settling in Calgary, Don received the Meritorious Science Award for his contributions from the Occupational and Environmental Medical Association of Calgary. Don was also involved with the occupational health programs at the U of C and U of A. He enjoyed the many opportunities to interact with and learn from his professional colleagues, many of whom became his cherished friends. He further contributed to the Calgary community through his fourteen years of volunteer work, as a Doctor and Board Member with the Calgary Urban Project Society (CUPS). In addition to professional achievements, Don had numerous interests. Don was a keen pilot, enthusiastic sailor and an active member of the Master’s Swimming Club. Don was passionate about learning through books, travel and good conversation. He instilled this thirst for knowledge in his children, family and friends. Don will always be remembered for his commitment to and passion for people and his eagerness to help others. He was a humanitarian in the true sense of the word. Don will be lovingly remembered by his wife Dorothy; sons Chris (Eleise) of Edmonton and Jeremy of Calgary; daughter Elizabeth (Lorenzo) Fontana of Calgary; grandchildren Emma, Luca, and Hannah; sister Anna (Alvin) Pineau of Fredericton, NB; and his brother Ralph (Dianne) of Bass River, NB. Don was predeceased by his father James and his mother Edith. A Memorial Service will be held at Woodcliff United Church (5010 Spruce Drive S.W.) on Thursday August 3, 2006, at 1:30 p.m., with Rev. Robert W. Mutlow, Presider. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Calgary Urban Project Society (CUPS), 128 – 7 Avenue S.W., Calgary, Telephone: (403) 221-8780. The family would like to thank Don’s personal physician, Dr. B. Wheeler, his oncologist, Dr. S. Dowden, the staff at the Tom Baker Cancer Clinic and the Homecare nursing team. In living memory of Dr. Don Johnston a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.