Fern Margaret Johnston

Fern Johnston, 101, passed away on October 17, 2019, at the Eden Adult Care Home in Gilbert, AZ. A resident of AZ for 38 years, Fern was born in Montezuma, Iowa, on September 19, 1918, where she attended high school. She participated in class plays and Declamatory contests. On December 29, 1940, she wed her beloved husband, Melvin Johnston, the love of her life who left shortly afterwards to fight in the Second World War. They were reunited in 1945 after his decorated combat duty. Their union produced two devoted daughters, Pamela Kay Emmer and Vicki Joy Shirling. Her oldest daughter, Pam, teacher, Real Estate Agent, business woman and author of two books lived next door to her mom for 17 years. The first 2 years she helped take care of her dad who died in 2005, and then spent the remaining years watching over her mom so she could stay in her own home, which she did until June of this year. Her youngest daughter, Vicki, preceded her mother in death after losing her courageous battle with breast cancer in 2001. Up until the time of her death, she was a loving mother, wife and Real Estate Agent. Fern enjoyed the love and comfort of both daughters and their children who all were devoted to her, sharing their company, laughter, assistance with finances, cooking meals and participating in her daily life with attention and devotion. They were her constant angels right up to her death.

Fern was a strong and courageous woman who was ahead of her time. She worked outside the home before it was customary. Her job at Hines Hospital in Chicago for 22 years fulfilled her need to contribute to the Veterans she served. And for that service she was awarded 12 recognition awards for her innovative suggestions. She was proud of her ability to see a problem and solve it which we all admired. She adapted well to life – both the good and bad in it. She saw so much change in 101 years, telling us the invention of the automobile and air conditioning were most remarkable. She was a passionate patriot, marking her own ballot in the 2016 election; she loved to play bridge and often won first place at the weekly bridge games at 101 years old. She baked the best pies in the whole world, and her waffles and syrup were the family favorites. She had a twinkle in her eye which mirrored her love of life and love for her grandchildren, Dane, April and Dawn, her great grandchildren, Ashley, Riley, Maya, Kinsley, and Tate, and her great, great grandchildren, Landon and Lila.

She inspired us to appreciate life – every moment – and we will treasure that legacy.

Service will be held at Mariposa Gardens, 6747 E Broadway, Mesa, AZ 85206, at 2 P.M. on Tuesday, October 22, 2019.

Memorial Donations may be made to Samaritans Purse.