LORNE JOHNSTON

We sadly announce the peaceful passing of William Lorne Johnston at home with his loving wife Lorraine, daughter Lenore, and youngest brother Ken at his side, who will hold him in their hearts forever. 

He will also be mourned by his daughter Maureen Becker; grandchildren, Leah and Kara; siblings, Violet (Fred) and Marjorie (David); sister-in-law Elaine; nieces, Lori (Rick) and Christine (Dale); great nephew Christopher; nephews, James, Brian (Cristie), Brent (Heather) and their families; as well as Australian nieces, Wendy, Heather, Kym and their families. Lorne will also be dearly missed by his large extended family and many friends. He was predeceased by his father Berthram, mother Anne, brother Ron, and sister-in-law Tannis.

Born in Dominion City, MB, his parents soon moved to Winnipeg where he lived his entire life. His formative years were spent in the North End, where he developed appreciation for many lifestyles and cultures. He graduated from St. John's High School in 1954 and began working as an office clerk at CP Rail. His next move was to article with two different accounting firms in order to obtain his diploma. He obtained his CA degree from the University of Manitoba in 1964. Lorne’s career was predominantly with James Richardson & Sons and its affiliates, where he worked in many different departments throughout the years. He spent 35 years with this large company, retiring in 2000 after enjoying his association with many co-workers and the Richardson family.  

Lorne was known for his integrity, reserved demeanor, patience and solid work ethic. You might refer to him as a “gentle man”. He had a strong social conscience, supported many charities and was especially generous with family. Those who knew him well enjoyed his subtle humor and satirical wit.

Lorne met his wife Lorraine at CP Rail where they both worked. They had been introduced earlier by his sister Vi, who was a friend of Lorraine’s. They married at age 21 in 1959, their first daughter was born in 1966 and 5 years later a second daughter arrived.  The next 15 years were spent on activities and adventures the children enjoyed. Lorne was a kind, thoughtful, dependable husband and was happily married to Lorraine for 64 years.

Lorne had many interests: Curling, tennis, golf and fishing. Several friends chartered a private plane and flew to Northern Manitoba or Ontario to fish once a year for 30 years straight. Socializing with friends was a large part of his life as was spending time with family; some of Lorne’s many travels were to Alberta, British Columbia and Australia to visit siblings’ families. His favourite travels included two cruises and trips to the East Coast, Hawaii and Mexico.

In 2000, Lorne and Lorraine became snowbirds and chose Fairways Mobile Home Park in Case Grande, AZ as their second home for 17 years. They enjoyed golf, activities at the clubhouse, made new friends as well as renewed friendships with extended family vacationing there. Lorne discovered he excelled at billiards, perhaps due to all the pool practise gained while playing hooky in high school.  

Despite the struggles Lorne had with his health during his retirement, he was stoic and positive until the end. We would like to thank the caring staff at St. Boniface and Misericordia Hospitals and the MAID medical team.

A Celebration of Lorne's Life was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2023 via Zoom. Click on this link to view the recording.

Lorne’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

Memorial donations may be made in Lorne’s name to Dying with Dignity Canada or Canadian Blood Services.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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