Obituary of Ruth Johnstone

Our beloved Wife and Mother passed away at the Pasqua Hospital in Regina on Wednesday, February 24, 2021. Survived by her loving husband of 71 years, Lorne; her children, Lorna (Dale) Gerhardt, Clayton (Polly) Johnstone, Beverly Johnstone (Kevin McKenzie), and Brenda (Ken) Montgomery; grandchildren, Melanie (David) Gerhardt Peters, Jeff (Meeka) Gerhardt, Tanya Gerhardt, Trevor Johnstone (Clare Wright), Gavin and Claire Macaulay; and great-grandchildren, Matthew and Sarah Peters. Mom was born and raised in Saskatoon, the youngest of nine siblings. She met Lorne, her future husband, while they were both singing in the choir at Grace United Church in Saskatoon. Following their marriage on September 17, 1949, Mom and Dad lived briefly in Saskatoon, prior to their move to the Johnstone family farm in Yellow Grass where they raised their four children. The family moved to Regina in 1967. They built a cherished cabin at Kenosee Lake in 1961, where many wonderful summer memories were made. As empty-nesters in later years, Mom and Dad enjoyed many sunny winters at their ‘Snowbird Home’ in Mesa, AZ. Music was a big part of all of our lives. Mom, a gifted soprano, performed at many weddings, graduations, and special events throughout the years. She was also renowned for her baking, especially her pies. We each had our favorites! Mom had a love of flowers and plants, and particularly enjoyed the many four-legged companions in all our homes. Mom lived a long and full life, with many special friends, and many nieces and nephews who were very dear to her. She was a tireless advocate for all of her family…a strong matriarch.

“May your heart be warm and happy

With the lilt of Irish laughter

Every day in every way

And forever and ever after.”

Those wishing to remember Ruth may do so through a donation to the Town of Yellow Grass, Cemetery Maintenance Fund, PO Box 2701, Yellow Grass, SK S0G 5J0.

A celebration of Mom’s life will occur at a future date. Due to current COVID restrictions, attendance will be by invitation.