Wilfred Andrew Johnston July 28, 1914 - January 9, 2009 It is with joyous remembrance that we celebrate the life of Wilf Johnston. Few men could stand equal to this man's kind and gentle soul. A charming man with a quick wit, Wilf never stopped living and enjoying life. Whether it was adventures on the golf course or the tales told over endless coffees with friends or family, his was the life of simple pleasures that changed all who knew him. A compassionate and loving husband, father and grandfather, Wilf's influence and love became the center of the family and his greatest success. Perhaps his longevity can be attributed to his inability to stop moving no matter how many times he was told he should relax and enjoy his senior years. His ingenuity, ambition and willpower had no age restrictions. Born and raised on the family homestead near Riverhurst, SK, Wilf helped his father and brother tend to the farm. During difficult economic times, Wilf did as many other ambitious, strong young men did and rode the rails to neighbouring provinces to earn money for the family. Once returning from working as a ranch hand in Alberta, Wilf paid a visit to a childhood friend not knowing that decision would change his life. Wilf recounted a shadow in the doorway that shone like an angel. It seemed the pesky younger sister of his friend had grown up. A quietly romantic man, he spoke of his relationship with his beloved, departed wife Grace as the "greatest love story of all time" which from the first kiss started the happiest forty-one years of his life. One only needed to spend a few tender moments with him watching the twinkle of flooding memories in his blue eyes to understand what true love could be. Wilf and Grace were married on November 4, 1937. He started his married life selling grain in Gilroy and Langbank before switching his path to carpentry, first in Langbank and then later moving to Moose Jaw in 1951. Once there, he worked at the Military Base, Bird's Construction, Eaton's and finally finished his career with C&S Construction in 1980. Wilf was a lover of sports all his life, particularly curling, baseball and golf. He was a member of the Hilltop Curling Club and the Hillcrest and Lynbrook Golf Clubs making many lasting friendships over the years. He was also a member of the Odd Fellows Club for many years. In later life when Wilf was no longer able to curl or golf himself, he enjoyed spending time following sports on TV. Seldom missing a Blue Jay game or a major golf tournament, the televised coverage of the curling a constant source of frustration for Wilf, he always finished his day with the crossword puzzle in the nightly paper and a cup of coffee. It was impossible not to fall in love with Wilf. A generous soul filled with unconditional love and radiating warmth, he charmed all who met him. Wilf spoke of not fearing death, but of being grateful for the rich life he lived. A gentleman to the end, his acceptance of the closing of his circle was yet another life lesson learned by his family. He passed from this world in a place of peace and tranquility during a long slumber in the night, reunited with the love of his life and joyfully remembered by the lives left behind. Until we meet again. From his blood we were created, from his love we became better. Wilfred Andrew Johnston was predeceased by his parents William and Jane, brother Tom and his wife Grace on April 21, 1979. Remembered with love by his children Jack (Audrey) - Niagara Falls, Dianne (Barclay) Cant - Kamloops and Gail Carpentier - Moose Jaw; beloved grandchildren Andy (Danielle), Lisa, Brent (Sherry), Dennis (Tara), Michelle (Derrick), Stephanie (Kyle) and Kristin; his cherished great-grandchildren Alysha, John, Brett, Aisha, Jackson, Amanda, Harrison and Logan. Wilf is also survived by numerous extended family members and friends with special mention going to Uncle Bruce, Aunt Audrey, Pete, Val, Ann and Deb for their continued support and visits. The family would also like to thank the "angels" who took such wonderful care of Wilf during his short time at Extendicare. A private family celebration of Wilf's life will take place this summer. In living memory of Wilf, a tree will be planted in Besant Park by W. J. Jones & Son Funeral Home. Please sign the memorial register book at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries). Gerry Mitchell Funeral Director