Donald Morris Johnstone, age 93, of New Glasgow, passed away peacefully in his home on November 4, 2024. Born in Ontario, he was the son of the late Clarence and Lola (Morris) Johnstone.
In those early days, Donald and his father operated Johnstone Sand and Gravel for many years. After which he transitioned into the cabinet business, installing kitchens across Pictou County.
Donald met Marion through a church group and they married in 1958. The First Presbyterian Church in New Glasgow always held a special place in Donald’s heart, having been an elder for over 50 years, joining in 1973.
"The shore" at Kingshead was another spot that was extremely close to Donald’s heart. With Marion packing him a lunchbox each day, he would head down to "the round garage" in preparation to fix, repair or build anything and everything. He had a unique ability to build something from nothing, whether it be trailers or sawmills. Arguably, his most special creation was the timber frame house that he and Kirk built, cutting every log in that round garage. Beyond the timber frame, Donald also had exceptional woodworking skills, creating unique pieces that will last for generations.
At the garage there was always a fire going and hot tea for Ian Henderson, Peter Searle, Martine Peters or anyone who stopped in for a visit.
A forever highlight of Grampie’s was any time that his grandchildren stopped in for a visit.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marion; his daughters: Carolyn (Bill) Mason, Lori (Joey) MacDougall; his son, Kirk Johnstone; his sister, Lois Stewart; his grandchildren: Layton (Melissa Logan) Mason, Morgan (Zac) Hale, Allister (Clara Lownie) Mason, Kayla (Alex Katkic) MacDougall; sister-in-law, Nora Jean (Paul) Jardine; his nephews: Colin (Jennifer) Stewart, Scott Taylor; his niece, Shannon (Reg) Higham; and special-to-his heart, Sheldon (Wanda) Matthews, Bobby Paquette and Rene (Jill) Boudreau.
He was predeceased by his parents, Lola and Clarence Johnstone; his brother-in-law, Barrie Stewart; his sister-in-law, Janet and Ned Taylor; his nephew, Kevin Stewart.
Visitation 11am – 12:20pm Friday, November 8, in R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow, followed by service at 12:30pm Friday, with Rev. Dr. Glen Matheson officiating. Donations in his memory may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 208 MacLean St., New Glasgow, NS, B2H 4M9 or the SPCA.
