Robert (Gene) E. Johnston

Gene Johnston, age 74, passed away on March 25, 2017, in Richland.

Gene was born on Nov. 13, 1942, in Salina, KS, the oldest son of Robert and Noma Johnston.  Gene’s family roots are in Missouri, where he spent his early childhood years.  When family members began migrating west, some settled in California but his Dad, through travels in the Army, took a liking to Washington and in 1949 moved his family to the Tri-Cities, where he lived most of his life.

He graduated from Richland High School in 1960.  He then joined the Navy and was stationed at the submarine base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.  His primary duty was maintaining submarines, and the Navy is where he received his training as a welder, which became his long-time career.

Continuing his trade in welding, he worked for various companies in the Seattle and Tri‑Cities area.  In 1998, he retired after 26 years at R&N Repair in Pasco.  A close personal relationship developed between Gene and the Debevec family (owners of R&N) that lasted long after his retirement.

Gene and Linda were married over 35 years.  They were truly blessed with a one-of-a-kind marriage filled with friendship, love, and respect.  Their deep mutual devotion to each other was an inspiration for all that knew them.

As a blended family, their 4 children were raised with love and caring.  Gene had a unique way of understanding each child’s individual needs and, according to them, his discipline styles are looked back on with laughter and appreciation.

Gene was a huge Seahawk fan; an avid reader of crime novels; a long time “river walker” with his dog Shilo; and boating became a passion shared by his children and grandchildren.

Gene’s family was his world.  His last day was spent surrounded by love ones recalling their favorite memories of family vacations, camping trips, and life experiences.  The stories often ended in a full belly, shoulder shrugging laugh from Gene; a cherished memory that brings a smile and will never be forgotten.  Gene touched many lives; he was deeply loved, and will forever be missed.

The family would like to give special thanks to Ross and Belinda, therapists at the Kadlec Health Plex, who helped Gene through a long, difficult illness.  They treated Gene with compassion, and gave him the support and encouragement he needed to continue his never quit attitude.

Gene is survived by his wife Linda; sons Curt (Stacey), Greg, and Jeremy (Kristin) Mensinger; daughter Michele Power; 9 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild.

Per Gene’s request, there will be no memorial service.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wounded Warriors.