May 21, 1952 - June 3, 2025
In loving memory ~
Paul Johnston — beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend — passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Winnipeg on May 21, 1952, Paul was the cherished son of the late Kathleen and William "Bill" Johnston. He graduated from Glenlawn Collegiate, where he discovered his passion for aviation—earning his pilot's licence before his driver's licence as part of the Air Cadets program, sparking his lifelong love of flying. He went on to study Engineering Technology at RRC Polytech and obtain a diploma in Occupational Safety & Health from the University of Manitoba.
A life flown on many wings, Paul's career was as varied as his interests. He began at National Typewriter, moved on to Motorola, and later co-founded Sunward Holidays. His true calling emerged when he became an environmental safety consultant—founding Johnston Gray Environmental in Winnipeg.
In 1989, growing tired of the -40 °C weather, he relocated the company to Nanaimo, BC. In 2007, he joined Lewkowich Engineering, where he developed their environmental division. He retired in May 2021 as Managing Partner, Health Safety & Environmental. His love for teaching never stayed grounded and he soon became a contract trainer with Orca Health & Safety. Over his career, he had the opportunity to share his expertise with clients such as NASA, the Department of Defense, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, even travelling to exciting places such as Sable Island, the Arctic, and Brazil.
At home, Paul was happiest on the water— first aboard his sailboat and later his fishing boat, where he most enjoyed being captain and tinkering with gadgets. He delighted in teaching, storytelling, travelling and spending time with his friends and family. In recent years, he found his happy place in San Pancho, MX.
Paul is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Bonnie; daughter Morgan (Angus); grandchildren Sebastian and Ruby; brother Bob (Stephanie); sister Nancy (Girard); and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. Reflecting on his journey, Paul often said he had "a full life of adventures—and no regrets."
All who knew Paul are invited to celebrate his remarkable life on Sunday, September 14, from 12 PM to 3 PM at Harewood Legion #10.
In lieu of flowers, donations to a chosen cadet-based charity would honor his enduring spirit.
Service Details
12:00 PM