He was born on November 11, 1926 in Delano, California. His family moved to Texas where he grew up in Alice.
He enlisted in the Marine Corp when he was 17 and was awarded the Purple Heart for his combat service in the Pacific Campaign of World War II and the Bronze Star during the Korean Conflict, where he attained the rank of Staff Sergeant.
He retired after 30 years of service to the Defense Language Institute English Language Center.
Mr. Johnston was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Viola Huizar Johnston in 1999.
He is survived by two sons; Robert N. Johnston of Newark, Delaware and Gary Johnston and his wife Lakeisha of Kerrville, Texas; and three grandchildren Stephen, Jacqueline, and Meagan Johnston; and one great grandchild, Alexis Sky; and two brother-in-laws, Nick Huizar and wife Maria Estella, and Patrick Huizer and wife Susan.; numerous extended family and friends.
