James "Jimmie" Johnston

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Arthur Johnston on December 30, 2024. Jimmie was born on July 12, 1946, in South Durham, QC. He went to McGill University - Macdonald Campus where he studied Agriculture. Jimmie moved to Ontario and began his long career in sales, starting with Ditch Witch and then 35 years with John Deere where he was affectionately known as ‘John Deere Jimmie’.

Jimmie led a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family. He was a cherished husband to his darling Kristine (Mikelsons), wife of 58 years. Together, they built a beautiful life and a loving home that will forever be a testament to their enduring love. He was a hardworking, devoted father to his three children: Tim (Kelly) of Morinville AB, Karen Johnston Waite (Shane Steele) of Severn ON and Mara Johnston Wingrove (Stefan) of Oro-Medonte ON, who carry forward his legacy of kindness, humour, and strength.

As a proud grandfather, Jimmie found joy in the lives of his grandchildren: Tyler Johnston, Taryn Johnston Hodges (Keiran), Kate Waite Sinclair (Drew), Jack Waite (Jaden), Lauryn Wingrove (Aldis), and Alyssa Wingrove (Jason). His legacy continues with his great-grandchildren, Karter, Kensley, and Karsyn Hodges.

Jimmie was predeceased by his father, Arthur, mother, Alice (Bacon) and sister, Lorah Rodgers (John). He will be deeply missed by many extended family members and friends. 

Our family is beyond grateful for the care and love provided to him by all the staff at Trillium Manor in Orillia.

Arrangements have been entrusted with Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West Street North, Orillia. Cremation will take place. A celebration of Jimmie's life will be held at a later date where family and friends are invited to share stories and memories of a remarkable man who touched the lives of so many.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Dying with Dignity Canada (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/donate/__;!!B209rIdvvA!bZOKuwEci2PObLYYT_NTq9LooPQbkQnOugjmMTz34jStGcl-8CmGRUfNOVkegae9jS7O0W2DQL-S31anjg$) and Alzheimer’s Society of Canada (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://alzheimer.ca/en__;!!B209rIdvvA!bZOKuwEci2PObLYYT_NTq9LooPQbkQnOugjmMTz34jStGcl-8CmGRUfNOVkegae9jS7O0W2DQL8SAD4Quw$) in Jimmie's name, reflecting his loving spirit and commitment to helping others as he hoped to achieve in the MacLean’s article ‘While we still can:’ (https://macleans.ca/politics/assisted-death-the-the-difficulties-around-demnetia/).

Press on, Jimmie….May the beer flow, lies be told, deer be plentiful and the fish be biting.

Messages of condolence are welcome at www.mundellfuneralhome.com