Mary Joan Johnston, late of Weyburn, passed away Monday, September 12, 2016 after a valiant fight with cancer for nearly 30 years on and off. She was born in Weyburn, the only child of the late John and Mary Chalmers. She graduated from Weyburn Collegiate in 1966. Mary was predeceased by her parents John and Mary, infant son Christopher; in-laws: George and Rachel Johnston. Mary is survived by her husband of 48 years Dale; son Trevor (Danielle) and their children: Dillon, Kate, Samuel, Luke; son Curtis (Ellen) and their children: Lily and Caden; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was an accomplished musician and studied at the Royal Conservatory of Music and received her A.R.C.T. in music and it was there she started her career as an impressive music teacher. Mary was also involved in many singing groups such as the Junior United Church Choir, the United Church Choir, and Octavius Choir and then eventually became the United Church Choir director. Her musical skills were delivered with precision and accuracy and she devoted her life to the United Church either through her talents or support. Mary had many talents other than music. She had a green thumb, enjoyed gardening, and was a wonderful baker. She did things carefully and took the time to do it the right way. Mary met Dale in 1967. In fact their first date was at the Carol Festival here in the United Church.聽 After three months of dating, Dale proposed. Sometimes you just know when the right one comes along. They married in 1968, their unity and togetherness through the years, whether good or bad times, is an example of something that is pure and rare. Mary and Dale were blessed with 48 years of marriage. Also, three wonderful boys were created through this dedicated relationship; Christopher, who sadly passed away, then Trevor and Curtis. Mary was a dedicated mother to her boys. They meant the world to her. Later in life, when Trevor married Danielle and they had four children: Dillion, Kate, Samuel and Luke; and Curtis married Ellen and they had two children: Lily and Caden; she got to experience grandchildren, something she blissfully beamed with pride over. She often said her grandkids were the most beautiful grandchildren in the world. Mary will be missed by her church family, many students and parents, friends and family; and most of all her immediate family. A Service of Remembrance for Mary was held Friday, September 16, at 2:00 pm from Grace United Church, Weyburn, with Reverend M. Barnabas officiating.聽 Honorary Pallbearers were all in attendance. Lunch was held at the Grace Upper Hall, Weyburn. For family and friends so wishing, charitable donations in memory of Mary may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society SE, 1910 McIntyre Street, Regina, SK, S4P 2R3. Arrangements were entrusted to RD Family Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, Weyburn, (306-848-0333 ~ 1-888-848-0333). Expressions of sympathy to the family may be sent to our website at www.rdfamilymemorialchapel.com 鈥淥ur Family Serving Your Family鈥�.
