Guy Warren Johnston Sr.

Guy received his BBAd from Gonzaga University and his J.D. from Gonzaga University Law School in Spokane, WA. He was a member of the Alpha Sigma Nu National Jesuit Scholastic Honor Society and the Phi Delta Pi, International Legal Fraternity. Guy was an attorney specializing in estate planning, living trusts, probate and related matters. He was very involved in community activities: Member and past president of the Rotary Club of Fresno (1984-85); Charter president, Padrinos of Valley Children’s Hospital; Past president, Volunteer Bureau of Fresno County; Member, Salvation Army Advisory Board (Board Chairman 1988-89); Past board member, Fresno Zoological society, The Fresno State Bulldog Foundation as well as many other affiliations. He served as a past board member of the Sequoia Council, Boy Scouts and was proud to have almost been an eagle scout—he fell one merit badge short when he had to move in his adolescent years.

Guy served as a radio operator in the U.S. Coast Guard (1945-46) and in the U.S. Navy (1950-52). For his service, he earned the World War II Victory Medal, the Korean Service Medal, the Navy Occupation Medal and the United Nations Medal.

Guy is survived by his loving wife, Carole A. Johnston and his five children and their spouses: Judy Hill (Larry), Susan Sanders, Jackie Williams (John), Shelley Long (Pat), and Guy W. (Chip) Johnston Jr. He was blessed with nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Betty Zech. When Guy married Carole (Ribera) Johnston in 1998, he welcomed her four sons and their families into the fold: Mike Ribera (Frances), Mark Ribera (Tara), Mitch Ribera (Jami), and Matt Ribera (Anne Marie), thirteen grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren, as well as Carole’s step children: Anne Hertwig, Lynn Kelley, Jeff Ribera and their families.

Guy had a wicked sense of humor and was once crowned “Funniest guy in Rotary.” He loved his family and Bulldog sports. He enjoyed tailgating with his friends and he regularly attended Fresno State football, basketball and baseball games. He was extremely proud to be the “grandpa” of Jordan Ribera when the baseball team won the College World Series. In his prime, he enjoyed playing tennis with his friends. He was extremely competitive and loved nothing better than to best an opponent. This held true for the Johnston family Pinochle games as well. Guy will be remembered for his generosity of spirit and his willingness to lend a hand wherever needed. Guy loved the Lord and was a member of New Harvest Church. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

Guy was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Lila, his brother Wayne, his grandson Jeff Hill, daughter-in-law Aggie Johnston and his stepson Mike Ribera.

A very special thank you to the staff of Sunrise Assisted Living and Nancy Hind’s Hospice for their kindness and care.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Guy’s life will be held at New Harvest Church on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 11 a.m.

A private graveside service will follow at Clovis Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Arrangements under the direction of Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel, Fresno, CA.