Ronald L. Johnston passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family on March 5, 2010.

Ron was born Dec. 15, 1924 to Harold and Marie Johnston and called Whidbey Island home most of his life.

During grade school the family moved from Oak Harbor to South Whidbey. Ron worked for his father Harold, at the Bayview Cash Store. At age 12 one of his jobs included driving the grocery delivery truck. He continued working with his father for a number of years.

After graduating from Langley High School in 1942, Ron enlisted in the Army Air Corps where he trained as a pilot during World War II. After the war he earned his business degree from the University of Washington normally hitch-hiking to and from his Lone Lake home to the university.

In 1946 he married his high school sweetheart Betty Dahlman. They made their family home on Lone Lake and together they raised three daughters.

The family later moved to Kenmore, where Ron owned and operated a successful contracting company. Upon retiring, Ron and Betty returned to Whidbey, and eventually resided full time at Mutiny Bay.

He and Betty traveled at every opportunity, including many trips with the entire family. Throughout his life Ron pursued his love of hunting and fishing and the outdoors. Ron always had a project underway!

Ron was preceded in death by his brother, Ray, and his beloved wife, Betty. He leaves behind his sister, Judy Workman (Lanny Workman); daughters and sons-in-law, Diane Johnston (John Hirst), Cheryl Gordon (Tim Gordon), Gail Thomson (Dan Thomson); and six grandchildren, Trevor, Jordan, Nathan, Jason, Devon, Rachel and nieces and nephews. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.

Please join with Ron’s family and friends to remember him at his home at Mutiny Bay between 1 and 4 p.m. Sunday, March 14.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that any contributions be made to Home Health Care and Hospice of Whidbey Island, 101 N. Main St., Coupeville, WA 98239.