JOHNSTON, Earl Keith

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 05/26/2006 Earl Keith Johnston was born Oct. 29, 1936 to Josephus Alvin Johnston and Elizabeth Short Johnston. He was born and raised in West Virginia until he entered the United States Air Force and was stationed in Arizona, where his life was about to change forever. While in the Air Force, he met the woman who stole his heart, Kathleen Goodman. Before he could make her his wife he was converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He then took the opportunity to serve a mission for the church in the Western States Mission. Upon completing his mission, he and Kathleen started their life together Aug. 23, 1963 in the Mesa, Arizona Temple. They eventually found their way to Snowflake and employment with the Pulp and Paper Mill, where he worked until his retirement. He lived his life for his wife and kids. When grandkids came into the picture, he played the part of grandpa well, using his grand parental skills to spoil them in more ways than one and send them back to their parents. Upon joining the church he has been an active member serving in various callings with his favorite being scouting. He had been an example to all he met and especially his wife, kids and grandchildren. He will be and is sorely missed. He is survived by his wife of nearly 43 years, Kathleen Goodman Johnston; two daughters Linda (David) Griggs of Tucson, Susan (Kennith) McCain of Taylor; three sons, Joe (Colene) Johnston of Glendale, Jimmy (Sherry) of Mesa and Robert (Kimberly) of Snowflake; also 16 grandchildren, one great-grandson and one on the way. He was preceded in death by two sons, Ray and William; one daughter, Christine, and one grandson, Michael.