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Red Johnston of Vero Beach, Florida died on November 17, 2017.
He was born in Rutland, Vermont August 23, 1923 to Loren J. Johnston and Alice (Hevey) Johnston.
He was a graduate of Rutland High School class of 1941.
Red served in the United States Army during World War II from July 1, 1942 until released from active duty on October 16, 1945. He served as a truck driver with the 944th Ordnance Motor Vehicle Distributing Company. He was transported on the Queen Mary in September 1943 to Glasgow, Scotland. His company uncrated, assembled and shuttled vehicles. He drove a jeep onto the Normandy beachhead on June 7, 1944. He participated in the Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge where he was wounded), and Central Europe Campaigns. He was awarded the European campaign Ribbon with 5 Service Stars along with the Army Service Ribbon.
Following his military service he married Jane Claypoole on August 24, 1946. They celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary this year.
Red was employed by the US Postal Service retiring in 1978.
Surviving are his wife Jane of Vero Beach, Florida, son Rick Johnston (Mary D) of Winooski, Vermont, daughters Barbara Mayer (Timothy) of Epping, New Hampshire, Karen Edgerton (Steve) of Rutland, Vermont, and Ken’s widow, Ginger Johnston of Pittsford, Vermont. Nine grandchildren: Rory Shannon, Becky Kruger (Jeff), Travis Johnston (Drew), Leah Connolly (Tommy), Michelle Harms (Jeff), Joshua Edgerton (Kathleen), Stefanie Johnston, Scott Johnston and Matt Johnston. Seven great grandchildren: Brandon Shannon, Thomas Connolly, Aaliyah Shannon, Aiden Harms, Riley Kruger, Hudson Kruger and Owen Harms. In addition there are numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Red was predeceased by his son Kenneth H Johnston on October 14, 2017. He was also predeceased by his parents, brother; Loren J Johnston, sisters Therese Johnston and Anne Mangan.
Graveside service will be held in Hartland, Vermont at the convenience of the family next summer.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to VNA Hospice House, 901 37th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
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