Stanley Gene Johnston

Stanley Gene Johnston, 80, died May 3, 2026 at home. Born January 15, 1946, in Shawnee, OK, he was the oldest of two children and grew up alongside his sister, Judy, who is four years younger. In his early years he played baseball and basketball. In 1959 the family moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where there were animals to care for and plenty of chores—work that helped shape the steady, capable man he would become.

His working life reflected both discipline and responsibility. Stanley served in the Army Reserve during the Vietnam War era. He was a surveyor for Colorado Gas in Wyoming and then served as a Federal Sky Marshal from 1971–1972 on routes from NYC to Europe. In 1972 he began a long career as an Air Traffic Controller, serving until his retirement on July 3, 1999. Beyond his formal work, he was skilled in construction, plumbing, and landscaping—gifts he applied with the same diligence and straightforward honesty that marked his life.

On June 2, 1974, Stanley married Pamela Bieker. Together they built a family with three sons (Matthew, Paul, and Jonathan) and two grandchildren (Miles and Alexis). He was preceded in death by their son, Paul Christopher, who died July 5, 1991. In later years, he especially enjoyed teaching and spoiling the grands, delighting in the everyday moments that become a family’s dearest memories.

Stanley’s interests were many: painting, photography, leather crafting, and working on vehicles. He loved the outdoors—especially hunting and fishing—and he enjoyed tent camping with the boys. He served as a Cub Scout leader and helped coaching, giving his time with a generous spirit and a practical willingness to show up and do what needed doing. After retirement, his adventurous streak found new horizons as he and his wife rode their motorcycle through 48 states and then went off-roading, embracing the open road with a sense of discovery.

He volunteered at Life Network and at every church they attended, living out a faithful commitment that was steady rather than showy. A believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, Stanley’s faith shaped his perspective and his hope. He loved people and enjoyed telling—and hearing—stories; his heart was filled with friends, and his loyalty ran deep. Known by the nickname “Grumpy,” he was a real curmudgeon before it became popular, and his humor often arrived with a twinkle and a well-timed remark. He also loved to debate, and those who knew him best will remember the wisdom behind his opinions and the lively conversations that followed. From his family’s perspective, if you KNOW Jesus, you will see Grumpy again—probably engaged in some interesting conversation.

The family expresses sincere gratitude to Pikes Peak Hospice, especially Jenny, Sara, and Steve/Gary. They also extend heartfelt thanks for the best neighbors ever, Jeff and Kara, and to the many friends—too numerous to mention by name—but who were deeply appreciated. Most of all, love always to family: Judy, Jeff, Matt, Jess, Jonathan, Miles and Alexis.

“See you on the far side banks of the Jordan”