Wallace E. Johnston

Wallace “Wally” Emil Johnston, age 74, of Rapid River (Ogontz), passed away Saturday, May 2, 2020 at his home surrounded by family. He was born on January 21, 1946 in Escanaba, the son of Richard A. and Edith O. (Carlson) Johnston. Wally was raised in Ogontz and was a 1964 graduate of Rapid River High School. Following graduation, he furthered his education at Michigan Tech University where he received a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Wally moved to Flint, MI and was employed at General Motors until he moved back to the area in 1971. He then was employed at Mead Paper Company in Escanaba as an Engineer in the Maintenance Department until his retirement in 2005. Wally married the former Carol A. Carignan on August 17, 1988 in Escanaba. Together, the couple shared 31 years of marriage. Wally was a member of the U.P. Steam and Gas Engine Association, enjoyed helping his brother on the family farm in Ogontz, and also found joy in working on Farmall Tractors. He enjoyed anything to do with the outdoors – especially camping and hunting, and was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many.

Wallace E. Johnston is survived by his wife, Carol Johnston of Rapid River (Ogontz), two sons, Richard Johnston of Gladstone, and Mark Johnston of Rapid River; one daughter, Janet Johnston of Escanaba; step-son, Steve (Mary Fay) Daigneau of Menominee, MI; 7 grandchildren, Jacob, Wyatt, Zach, Kyley, Landen, Brody, Brayden; brother, Dan Johnston of Rapid River; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Wally was preceded in death by his brother, Reed Johnston; and niece, Bridget Cullimore.

Private family visitation and funeral services will be held at the Anderson Funeral Home in Gladstone with Rev. Stephen Gauger officiating. Burial will take place at 1:00 p.m., Friday, May 8, 2020 in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery.

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