James Lee Johnstone born into this world on Sept 9, 1940 and left unexpectedly on June 9, 2016 at the tender young age of 75. He will be sadly missed and forever remembered.
He leaves behind his ex-wife and friend Carol, 5 children – Barry (Wendy), Tracey (Ronda), Gregory (Holly), Christy (Mark) Parmely and Toby (Debi) along with 13 grandchildren – Tiffany (John) Jaksic, Kyle (Amanda) Johnstone, Dakota, Hunter and Zachary Johnstone, Taylor and Savannah and Jaxon Johnstone, Cole and Simon Johnstone, Samantha, Courtney and Kody Thistle as well as 3 great-grandchildren – Nikola Jaksic, Carter Birch and Colton Johnstone. James also leaves behind a brother, sister, niece and nephews. He is joining his mother and father in the glorious kingdom of God.
James (or J.J.) as he liked to be called loved the open road and spend many years as a over the road truck driver – his latest adventure was in his own company called Silver Eagle. One of his proudest moments was when he received an award for driving safely for over 2 million miles. He was very proud of that. He was also an avid fan of the old westerns and country music and loved to perform karaoke – and he could really sing! He loved to play the accordion in his younger years and as time went on he took on crossword puzzels. J.J. loved to try his luck at the casino and would love to play a little poker when sitting around the table with his kids. One of his greatest joys was going up north fishing – it was his place to just kick back and relax. He enjoyed it so much that he left the fish alone.
James was a great son as he provided care for his mother as she aged, he loved his family – they meant everything to him. He found his youth in his youngest grandsons who always brought a smile to his face. His smile lit up a room as well as his Stetson – which is just one thing we will all remember about dad, grandpa.
We all love you dad and will miss you more than words can say. There is an empty place in all of us.
There will be a memorial service in the Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church N2895 County Hwy E Sullivan WI in the township of Sullivan (Helensville) at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday June 21st, 2016, Pastor Tsuker Yang officiating. The family will receive guests from 10:30 until the time of service in the church. Burial will follow in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery with military honors.