Obituary of Bill Johnston

It is with heavy hearts that the family announces that Bill Johnston died at home on August 22, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on March 9, 1953 in Winnipeg, MB and was married to Cheryl (Trapp) on May 29, 1976. They recently celebrated 47 years of wedded bliss. He was the proud and loving father to Trish and Garth.

Anyone who knew and loved Bill most appreciated his sense of humour. He could make anyone laugh and was always ready with a funny quip. Known to many in St. Adolphe as Billy Two Sheds, he was incredibly hard working and was always willing to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. A jack of all trades, he helped many neighbours, friends, and family members over the years with building projects, renovations, fixing stuff, and his personal favourite, snow blowing. He and Cheryl shared a love of gardening and canning the fruits of their labour. Bill was a quiet guy, a world class listener, and appreciated his own company. He adored his grandkids like no other and was so proud of their achievements, big and small. Bill was a kind and compassionate man, truly was salt of the earth. He understood struggle and pain in a deeply personal way and the manner in which he showed up for people in his life was honest and good. He will be missed by many.

Bill leaves behind his wife Cheryl, children Trish (Vaughn Barkman) & Garth (Sarah Albiani) as well as his four grandchildren, Freya, Zoe, Oliver, and River.  He also leaves behind his sisters Roberta Harrington and Val Johnston.

He is predeceased by his father and mother, Arthur & Peggy (McLaughlin) Johnston, as well as his brothers, Lorne and Jim, and sister Jenny Zborowski. If there is an afterlife, these four siblings are having a very good time together. 

A private service for his family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in Bill’s name to The Dream Factory: https://www.thedreamfactory.ca/donate or Ronald McDonald House: https://www.rmhcmanitoba.org/how-you-can-help/make-a-donation

We are immensely grateful to the palliative care team for their care and support. Special thanks to all the friends, family, and neighbours who helped out during Bill’s final days. Your continued love and support is immeasurable.