Machel Johnston

Went to the big dance in the sky at age 102. Born in Prince Albert SK, moved to BC 1943. Predeceased by parents Viola & Daniel Daly; soul mate & 3rd husband Michael Johnston, retired Chief Warrant Officer 1st Cl. Royal Canadian Navy; sisters Eveleen Fisher, Noreen Merkowsky, Florina Marwood; brothers Joseph, Patrick, Joshua and Robert Daly; survived by sister Marlene Hillhouse, extended family of 27 nieces & nephews, 44 great, 25 great great etc. In 1944 following the Depression, Machel relocated her father, 6 months later her mother and youngest siblings Bob and Marlene followed to N. Van.

Machel enjoyed a successful career as a Commercial Sales Rep in BC for Wholesale Beauty & Barber Supplies. In 1990 in keeping a promise to her late mother she travelled across Canada & parts of US contacting over 2000 relatives for a Russell/Roussel reunion on early 90’s. 1991-2006 travelled, fulfilling her passion for meeting people and exploring. She continued to travel until 2024 when no insurance company would cover a 101 year old. Genealogy became her life’s work contacting family in Ireland & England and USA. Her love of family & friends was reflected in travel destinations, winters in Palm Springs, dancing, golfing and fishing. Machel owned her own boat as a single woman, her last fishing trip was to Haida Gwaii.

She lived independently with a view of and access to the ocean until her passing. She actively participated in clubs; Chief & PO Mess, Esquimalt 172nd, Recycled Teenagers, New Imperial Social Club, Sons of Norway, Legion 292 Trafalgar & Pro Pats, People Meeting People & YWCA.

Machel’s farewell wish to family & friends; Dance as though no one is watching, Love as though you’ve never been hurt, Sing as though no one is listening, Live as though Heaven is On Earth.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the BC Heart & Stroke Fund are appreciated. Celebration of Life date and location to be determined.