William Mathew Johnston

William M. Johnston

September 26, 1947 – July 30, 2024

William Mathew Johnston passed away peacefully while in the north woods with family on July 30, 2024, at 76 years of age.

Bill was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Bill is survived by his wife of 53 years, Terry Johnston (nee Reuteman). Also by his children Bill Johnston, Maggie (Matt) Zorn, Sarah (Tim) Anderson, Therese (Tony) Suslick, and Patrick Johnston. He was a loving grandfather to Emma (Logan) Larrabee, Patrick and Abby Zorn, Sam, Joe, Molly, Peter Muren, Ben and Charlie Johnston, and the late Brayleigh King.

He is further survived by a giant extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Bill is preceded in death by his father, Dr. William H. Johnston; mother, Alice Johnston; brother, Thomas Johnston; and beloved granddaughter, Brayleigh.

Born in Fargo, North Dakota, Bill grew up in Moorhead, Minnesota. He spent much of his childhood in Detroit Lakes, and loved sharing memories of this time with family and friends.

After moving to Wauwatosa, he worked at Marshall Fields, where he met the love of his life, Terry.

They were married in August 1971.

Soon after, Bill was drafted to serve with the United States Army in Vietnam. He was a proud and humble veteran who recently began sharing stories of his time in the military.

After the military, his career began in the insurance industry and evolved to enjoying 33 years on the team at Sid Grinker Restoration Co. During this time Bill and Terry raised their family in Genesee, Wisconsin.

A kind, compassionate, and thoughtful man, “one of the good guys.” Quick with a helping hand, lending a tool, or a ride to and from, Bill was also known for his genuine warm greeting, always making people feel right at home.

He loved Christmas and the joy of delivering gifts of fruit baskets and holiday stollen.

In retirement, he enjoyed spending time on the golf course, watching old Westerns, viewing sunrises and sunsets from his lawn chair, donuts on Sunday, and spending time up north with his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to The Cure Starts Now-WI(Brayleighville) or to WI Stars and Stripes Honor Flight .

A visitation to celebrate Bill's life will take place on Monday, August 12, 2024 at St. Paul's Catholic Church (S38w31602 Wern Way, Waukesha, WI 53189) from 9:00AM-11:00AM with a service to follow. Military honors will be accorded following the service.