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Richard Johnston Obituary
Richard W. Johnston, a professional musician, teacher, mentor, and a man who knew no strangers, died January 28, 2013 from complications of a stroke.
Born in Whittier, California on Sept. 19, 1928, his first pro clarinet gig (age 16) was with the Hollywood Bowl Symphony. He repaired woodwind instruments, jokingly calling himself a "horn smasher." In 2002 he and Marcia moved to Lawrence KS.
Richard had a wonderful spirit and a full life. Many people will miss his open arms, and magical musicianship.
Richard was preceeded in death by his eldest daugther Vicki in 1980, and leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Marcia; sons, Thomas, and Alan; daughter Elizabeth; and four grandchildren.
A celebration of his life will be Saturday, Feb. 9, at 10 a.m. at the Lawrence Unitarian Fellowship, 1263 North 1100 Road.
Please sign this guestbook at Obituaries.LJWorld.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Johnston
Sally Fiske Nasman
January 28, 2024
We haven´t forgotten him! He lives on in our memories. We were just talking about him this week as we recounted all of our music teachers. He was a very special man.
Karen Pratt
June 30, 2013
Sorry to hear of your loss my thoughts are with you and the family. He was a wonderful teacher at Lodi High School and we all loved him and hated to see him go.
Tom Richards
February 22, 2013
Dear Johnston Family,I am truly sorry for your loss.Dick as I knew him was an insperation to all who really knew him.I first met him at Foreign auto parts coming to buy Renault parts.Go figure.But through the years I have very fond memories that will never leave me till I'm gone.I will surely miss him & his generous smile.With a heavy heart so long Richard(Dick)Johnston.
February 16, 2013
Remembering a very sensitive, beloved music teacher at Lodi High. It was not uncommon for my sister and I to often talk of "Mr. J" at the dinner table .....to the point where my mom would say, "Is there anything else to talk about?" My sincere sympathies to you, Marcia, and the family.
Betsy Fiske
February 15, 2013
We really missed Mr. J when you folks moved out of Lodi. He was a lot of fun and well-loved as a teacher. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sally Fiske Nasman
February 15, 2013
How we loved "Mr. J." at Lodi High School! He was both a teacher and a friend. I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know that he lives on in our fond memories.
Adrianne Brynds
February 6, 2013
Marcia and family, my thought are with you during this time. I hope you are comforted my your many happy memories. It was a pleasure to know him.
Stan Trekell
February 4, 2013
I will always remember the many wonderful conversations that Richard and I shared as neighbors and friends. He was, and still is, an incredible example of a life well-lived. I am privileged to have known him.
Greg & Sam Springer
February 3, 2013
Our thoughts and sympathies are with you in your time of great sorrow. We, as well as many others, will miss Richard and his unfaltering friendliness.
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