“LIFE IS GOOD”
It is with profound sadness we announce the very sudden passing of Bruce. He died at home in Phelpston with his family in the early morning of April 10, 2021.
On October 22, 1977 Bruce married the love of his life Laura Donnelly of Barrie and together they raised their family. He was the best and most loyal friend to Laura (Donnelly) for 44 years. Bruce was the doting father and mentor to Lindsay Murphy (Darryl) and Jordan (Candace). He was the cherished and adoring grandpa to Kayla, Wyatt, Hunter and Rylie. Bruce had so many plans to teach his grandchildren wood working, mechanics, gardening and life skills. His desire was to instill a passion for learning in each of them. His family meant everything to him.
Bruce was the youngest son of George and Ruth (Archer) Johnston. His entire life was spent living on the same lot and concession although in two different homes in Phelpston.
Bruce was the youngest brother of seven children. He is survived by his brother Lawrence (Ruby), Glenna Reynolds (late George) and Judy Green (Harold) of Barrie. He was predeceased by sisters Pauline Jones and Laurine Spring and brother William (Bill). He will be greatly missed by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews and cousins on both sides of the families. He will be forever remembered by family in England.
Bruce was a loving and caring person who always saw the best in everyone he met. He would talk for hours to family, friends and strangers. He took great joy in sharing stories, telling jokes or playing a practical joke or two. He will be remembered by his friends that were very dear to him whether he saw them daily or occasionally.
A very special thank you to the 911 dispatcher, the team of “J” and “J” of the Simcoe County Paramedics, the crew from Springwater Fire and Emergency Services and the Officers of the Huronia West O.P.P. for their assistance.
Respecting Bruce’s wishes cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Details to follow.
Memorial donations may be made to The War Amps of Canada. https://donate.waramps.ca/eforms.aspx?edonate Bruce was a longtime supporter in recognition of his father serving in WW1.
Arrangements entrusted through Peaceful Transition Simcoe
Tammie Maynard
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Laura I was so saddened to hear the news about Bruce. My condolences to you, Lindsay, Jordan and families. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021Thank you for your thoughts and prayers
Marilyn Newell
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO Bruces family and friends.
Wish i were near to give u a hug.
My thoughts and prayers are wth you.
Cinthia Owen
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Dear Laura,
Our sincere condolences go out to you, Lindsay and Jordan. Bruce was a great person who was respected by myself and Allan and many others. We will never forget spending time with you and Bruce at the annual City Christmas party and sharing a few laughs. Cinthia Owen and Allan Bogoros.
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021Cinthia we are devastated by the loss. Lots of tears, lots of memories and lots of laughs. He loved the City Hall parties.
Mike & Cathay Moreau
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Our deepest sympathy to the entire Johnston family. Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you.
Cathie Tummon
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Laura & family,
Thinking of you at this sad time. May your many wonderful memories of Bruce help you get through these trying times.
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021We are devastated. We have a lot of memories to help us through each day.
Sherree Buchanan & family
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Deepest sympathy to everyone. May your memories help in your time of sorrow.
Brenda and Wally Russell
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Laura and family…we will remember Bruce with great fondness … always enjoying any time our paths crossed. Keeping you in our prayers. Our sincere sympathy.
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021Thank you for the prayers and kind words. Bruce loved the City Hall socials and time spent with both of you.
Sue and Al Kerslake
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Laura so very sorry to hear of your loss. We send our thoughts and prayers to you , Lindsay and Jordan . May your memories bring you light in the dark moments .
Denise Ritchie McLean
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Laura and family. I am sorry to hear of the passing of Bruce. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Thanks. Denise
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021Thank you. We are devastated but have years of love and laughter to get us through each day.
Linda Ferreira
Posted on: Sunday, April 18, 2021Laura …Lindsay and Jordan…your family’s have been touch by such an early sadness…I hope your memories of Bruce will help you to get through the heavy days ahead …thinking of you all
Dawn & Colin Grey
Posted on: Monday, April 19, 2021Dear Laura,Lindsay,Jordan and families, thinking of you all at this sad time.
Bruce has gone from our sight but will never leave our hearts.
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021We are devastated but we do have years of memories full of love and laughter to get us through each day.
Marion Elrick Brewer
Posted on: Monday, April 19, 2021My condolences to the Johnston Family , life is way to short and keeping the good memories help you through the hard says.
Lorrie Archer
Posted on: Monday, April 19, 2021Laura and the Johnston Family – My condolences to you Laura and all of your family – such a sad sad time. Thinking of you.
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021Thank you. The memories we have will be cherished for always
Frank & Maria Tuttle
Posted on: Monday, April 19, 2021Dear Laura and family,
Sending our deepest condolences on your loss.
Bruce was truly “one of the good guys.”
Sending hugs and prayers.
Frank & Maria
Sandy Pronyk
Posted on: Monday, April 19, 2021Laura,
I was so saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Bruce. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Sandy Pronyk
Laura
Posted on: Wednesday, April 21, 2021Thank you. Our memories of love and laughter will help us day by day.
Christine Ferguson
Posted on: Thursday, June 10, 2021Dear Laura. So sorry to hear of your loss. I send my thoughts and prayers to you and family.
Christine Ferguson