Robert Lloyd Johnston
August 27, 1920 — February 22, 2010
Robert L. Johnston, business man and owner of the L'Anse Furniture Mart, passed away on Monday, February 22, 2010 at Baraga County Memorial Hospital in L'Anse, MI at the age of 89.
He was born August 27, 1920 in L'Anse, son of the late Henry A. and Clara (Paquette) Johnston. Robert graduated from L'Anse High School in 1938.
Robert enlisted in the United States Navy May 26, 1942. September 17, 1942 he boarded the USS Florence Nightingale (AP70) serving as Yeoman First Class and departed January 28, 1946. His awards include: American Theater Medal, European-African-Mid-East with 3 bronze stars, Asiatic-Pacific with 1 bronze star, and the good conduct medal.
He graduated from Vogue School of Interior Decorating of Chicago and was previously employed by Schauer and Shumacher of Green Bay and Tonella and Rupp of Marquette. Robert was employed by the L'Anse Furniture Mart for 11 years, 8 years as manager, before purchasing the furniture store in June 1969.
Robert married the former Eleanor Tollefson on September 2, 1950 at First Lutheran Church in L'Anse. He enjoyed spending time with his family and being at the beach, square dancing, skating, woodworking, and crafts. He was an active participant in community events. Robert was a member of United Lutheran Church, former President of Red Rockers Square Dance Club, former President of the Baraga County Chamber of Commerce, member of L'Anse Business Association, Eagles Aerie # 2287, VFW Post #3897, American Legion Post #144, and the L'Anse-Baraga Figure Skating Club.
Surviving are his son Jeff (Mary) Johnston and daughter Jane (James) Olson both of L'Anse, sister Dorothy Baltic of Escanaba, four grandchildren Tim (Stacy), Julia, Laura Johnston, and Linnea Olson, and one great grandson Ivan Johnston.
Preceding him in death are his wife Eleanor, brothers Chester and Allen, sisters Myrtle Skuggen and Pearl Saunders.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 24th from 5-8 pm at the Jacobson Funeral Home. The Baraga County Area Veterans will conduct military rites Wednesday at 7 pm at the funeral home. The funeral service will be on Thursday, Feb. 25th at 11:00 am at the United Lutheran Church in L'Anse. Rev. Scott Williams will officiate. Burial will be in the L'Anse Evergreen Cemetery in the spring. The Jacobson Funeral Home in L'Anse is assisting the family. Friends may sign Robert's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.