Walter B. Johnston

He grew up with his sister Joyce Clydene and loved hunting and fishing with his buddies, Jack Campbell and Ken Vaughn. After high school he entered the army and served for three years. He started college and was called back by Uncle Sam in 1950. He served his country another two years.

He married Elsie May White on August 26, 1950. On February 12, 1952 he started his first day as a representative for John Hancock Life Insurance in Seattle. He stayed only a few hours as his wife gave birth to their first son on the same day.

He finished his Bachelor’s degree in business administration at the University of Washington in 1956. The year his second son was born. Two daughters followed in 1958 and 1962.

The family moved to Beaverton, Oregon in 1966 when John Hancock opened their Portland office and “ Walt ” became claims manager to both offices. He belonged to Seattle and the Portland Footprinters Association, The Oregon Dental Association, The Elks Club and the Lions Club. He retired in 1983 after serving 31 years with J.H.

He moved to the Nile Valley where he enjoyed Fishin’ and Lollin’ on the Naches River. He became a member of the Nile Valley Community Church and helped with the building of the current structure. He was loved, served and was served by the Nile Community for 23 years. The last 3 years of his life was spent in the loving care of the Milligan House in the West Valley.

He is survived by his sister Joyce Clydene Garrett currently of Edmonds, his son Robert Clyde Johnston of Lynnwood, daughter Nancy Sue Anderson of Portland, OR, and Kathleen Ann Johnston of Yakima.

Visitation will be from 12-4 pm, Sunday, February 28, 2010 at Keith & Keith 9th Avenue Chapel. A Graveside service with Military Honors will be held at West Hills Memorial Park at 10 am, Monday, March 1, 2010 followed by a Memorial Service at the Keith & Keith Terrace Heights Chapel at 11:30 am. Dress casual. Your best jeans or khakis. Cowboy boots and western attire welcome. No suits and ties please. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Keith & Keith Funeral Home.

Arrangements under the direction of Keith & Keith Funeral Home, Yakima, WA.