Robert Stanley Johnston

Robert “Bobby” Stanley Johnston, age 76 of West Branch, loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away Friday, November 1, 2019, at his home. He was born on October 3, 1943, to Russell and Alice (Guss) Johnston in Morenci, MI. Bob married Ardis Ann Twork on August 29, 1964, in Detroit at the Fourteenth Avenue Methodist Church. Bob moved to West Branch in 2003 and was formerly of Shelby Township and Sterling Heights.

Bob graduated from Reading High School in 1961. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Michigan University. Bob then earned a Master’s degree in Education and Specialist Degree in Administration. He taught at Utica Community Schools for 34 years. During his career, he coached numerous sports’ teams and influenced the lives of many people.

Bob and Ardis wintered in Jekyll Island, GA, since 1996. He enjoyed golfing, listening to Elvis Presley, riding his Harley, spending time with his family and friends, and watching his grandchildren play sports. Bob was an avid sports fan and could be found most evenings watching the Detroit Tigers or college basketball. He also had many stories of his time spent on the farm in Reading and at the cottage in Harrison.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Ardis Johnston of West Branch; daughter, Julie (Jason) Wendtland of Rockford, MI; daughter, Meredith (Eric) Anderson of Frederic, MI; grandchildren: Kathryn “Katie” and Audrey Wendtland; Ryan and Alaina Anderson. Also surviving are his sisters: Sharon (Jim) Carlson of Gladwin; Mary Ann (Bob) Huffman-Schneider of Fort Wayne, IN; and niece and nephews: Steve (Kim) Carlson, Jeff (Jessica) Huffman, and Jodi (Todd) Clark. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Alice Johnston, and brother-in-law, Norm Huffman.

Bob leaves a legacy of love and will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch on Saturday, November 9, 2019 at 2:00 PM with family receiving friends from 1:00 PM until time of service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to any of three foundations: Utica Community Schools Foundation for Educational Excellence, Rockford Education Foundation, or the Crawford AuSable Excellence in Education Foundation.

Condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com