Darwin Johnston's Obituary
Darwin Johnston, of Edmore Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 29th, 2025, at the age of 97. Beloved husband of Ruthie for 75 years. Loving father of Rick (Debi) Johnston, Dennis, Mianne (Gene) Malberg, and Cindy (Kent) Cox. Proud Grandpa to Jodi, Holly (Eric), Mandy (Scott), Jamy (Julie), Jared, Justin (Jen), Emily (DJ), Melissa (Jason), Sarah (Ernest), Lucas, Erin (Scott), Chad (Keigh), Adam (Marianne), and Megan (Gareth). Adoring Great Grandpa to 23 precious great grandchildren! Dar and Ruthie's family multiplied from just the 2 of them to 57 during their lifetime!
Dar was predeceased by his mother (Myrtle), his father (Arthur), and his step-father (Martin Hockstra). He was also predeceased by all 12 of his siblings.
Dar met his precious Ruthie at a dance in Barryton, and knew that very night that he was going to marry her. She truly became the love of his life. They got married at the young ages of 19 and 21 at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Remus. Darwin lived out his wedding vows with all his heart until the day he died. When Ruthie had a stroke in 2010, Dar took over all of the cooking, the cleaning, the laundry ... and Mom's every need. What demonstrated love! Countless times a day, he told her, "You are so precious to me!"
Darwin was a family man. His family ate every meal together- breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dar came home from work for his 30-minute lunch break daily. And dinner hour was sacred. Oh, the conversations around that dining room table ... if only those walls could speak!
Every Sunday, the family went to the farm in Remus. Dar and the boys went hunting or fishing. Ruthie and the girls went visiting all of the aunts and cousins around the square. The farm is a sweet memory for the whole family.
So was camping. Dar and Ruthie bought a little Frolic travel trailer for family vacations. From weekends at Horsehead Lake campground, to road trips across the country, family memories were made and treasured in that little travel trailer!
And then came the weddings, followed by grandkids galore! Grandpa lavished his love on all of those kiddos with tractor rides, treats, and loads of Grandpa cuddles!
Dar was a man of strong faith in God. And he was a faithFULL man. He was so dedicated to his church, St Margaret Mary's, and each priest assigned there. Darwin served on the parish council, grounds and maintenance, finance, and anywhere else he was needed. He became every resident priest's best friend and right-hand man.
Dar was an excellent provider for his family. He started his career at General Electric/Hitachi in 1952, working on the floor. He worked himself all the way up the ranks to the position of chief purchasing agent. He retired from Hitachi after 36 years of service at the age of 61.
And then came retirement ... the golden years! Dar and Ruthie wintered in Gulf Shores for many years. Their favorite pastime was square dancing. They were always the stars of the dance floor!
As the years went on, their lives gradually slowed down. But God and family time always remained their blessing and joy. What an example Darwin lived! What a legacy he left!
Visitation will be Sunday, February 2nd, from 5:00 - 8:00PM at Brigham Funeral Chapel, 413 E. Gilson St., Edmore, 48829. Dar will be laid in state on Monday, February 3rd, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 8929 50th Ave., Remus, 49340 at 12:00 PM, preceeded by his Mass of Resurrection at 11:00 am. Family will greet guests from 10:00AM until time of service.
To honor Dar's memory, donations can be made to St. Michael's School Foundation.
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