Joseph Israel

Joseph Israel (Born Richard Joseph Johnston), 73, passed away peacefully at home in Arlington, WA, on November 4, 2024, surrounded by family and friends, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on July 17, 1951, to Monroe Johnston and Dorothy Grunbock in Seattle, WA, Joseph grew up in a large household as the second youngest of five children. As a youth, he roamed the grounds of King’s Garden and the surrounding Shoreline neighborhoods. His upbringing instilled in him the values of hard work and community.

In the 1970s, Joseph found a sense of belonging and peace as a member of The Love Family, a community that reflected his values of mutual support and simplicity. He carried these principles throughout his life, consistently helping others and embracing the richness of a life unburdened by materialism. This is also where he met his wife, Thoughtful Israel, and began a new chapter of selflessness and sovereignty.

Joseph spent much of his professional life as a landscaper and crew lead at Far Pastures Nursery, a 150-acre tree nursery along the North Fork of the Stillaguamish River, which he then made into his home. Later in life, he transitioned to real estate, where he found satisfaction in performing research, building networks, and finding homes for others.

He was also a skilled house painter and a well-rounded craftsman, dedicating his talents to helping others beautify their homes, both inside and out. He was rarely idle, always keeping busy with projects until he was no longer able. He lived a life guided by honesty, diligence, and simplicity, treasuring his family and upholding his integrity above all else.

Joseph’s family was the cornerstone of his life. As a husband he was loyal, loving, and a stable provider. As a father he was a consistent guiding presence who prioritized his children over himself at every opportunity. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Thoughtful Israel, and his children, Jerome Johnston and Paul Israel, as well as his stepchild, Tina Sozen. He was a proud grandfather to Elle Johnston and Reese Johnston, as well as stepchildren Lila Sozen and Evan Sozen. Joseph also leaves behind his siblings Susan Cicotte, Wayne Johnston, and Greg Johnston, as well as his sister-in-law, Meri Halweil, and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Judith Clark and brother-in-law Ronald Halweil.

A humble and talented musician, Joseph found joy in playing the guitar, piano, and singing. His passion for crafts, trees, gardening, building, and geometry inspired countless projects, which he approached with precision, resourcefulness, and creativity.

More than anywhere else, Joseph found comfort at the family beach house, a cherished retreat shared with his siblings. This special place brought the family together through shared responsibility, compromise, and perseverance. Joseph loved making home improvements, fishing, warming himself by the wood stove, and relaxing on the porch, where he watched the sunlight paint the Puget Sound.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Won Israel, Terrie Korf, and Chris Wilstein for their compassionate care and guidance during Joseph’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to share short stories and written thoughts about Joseph, which they plan to compile into a memorial book. Please send by e-mail or post to Thoughtful.

Joseph’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and quiet brilliance. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.