Gary M. Johnston

Gary M. Johnston, age 69, peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

Gary was born in Robbinsdale, Minnesota to Ken and Midge Johnston. Shortly thereafter they moved to Grove City, Pennsylvania where he grew up and graduated from college. After graduation he moved to Hawaii where he worked a variety of jobs ranging from wedding photographer to laundry salesman. His passion in writing and photography thrived in Hawaii. After twelve years he moved to the west coast then back to Minnesota where his wife Kim picked him up from the airport, and the rest is history. They were each other's soulmates.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Midge Johnston; sister, Linda; sister-in-law, Phyllis; aunt and uncle, Fran and Helen; and other extended family members.

He is survived by his wife, Kim Johnston; children, Ashley Severin, Sami (Tim) Ernster, and Joe (Brooke) Johnston; grandchildren, Iver and Arthur; brothers, Alan and Paul; several nieces and nephews; and many other family and friends.

Memorial service 4:30 PM, Monday, July 17, 2026, with visitation beginning one hour prior at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th Street S., Cottage Grove, Minnesota 55016. Reception to follow.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Regions ICU for their care and compassion.

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