Goodbye Dear Friend -- Lee P. Johnston 1916-2009

In Loving Memory Lee Potter Johnston 05/15/1916 - 1/15/2009

Lee P. Johnston, 92, of Gering, died Thursday, January 15, 2009 at West Nebraska Veteran’s Home in Scottsbluff. His memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at the West Nebraska Veteran’s Home Chapel with Pastor Robert Wigert officiating. Masonic services will be given by Scotts Lodge #201 AF & AM of Gering and military honors by the Nebraska Army National Guard. Inurnment will be at West Lawn Cemetery in Gering. A memorial has been established to the West Nebraska Veteran’s Home. Gering Memorial Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Lee was born May 15, 1916 in Beaver Crossing, NE to Lee Roy and Mary Olive (Potter) Johnston. He grew up and received his education in Beaver Crossing, served with the Civilian Conservation Corps for two years before entering the Army Sep 11, 1939. He served as a Sergeant in the 82nd Airborne in the Sicily, Italy, France, Germany, Holland, England Campaigns. He was honorably discharged August 29, 1945. He lived in Norfolk and Crawford before coming to Scottsbluff and Gering where he owned and operated Johnston Lawn & Garden Center. Lee was a member of the Melbeta Methodist Church, Eagles Aerie #2998, Gering, Ne, Scotts Bluff Lodge #201 AF & AM, Order of Easter Star #133, Admiral Dewey Post #1681 VFW and senior member of Funnelaters of America.

Lee is survived by his nephew Benny (Nance) Engel, Jr. of Beaver Crossing, NE, 1 great niece, 2 great nephews, 5 great-great nieces and 2 great-great nephews. Lee was preceded in death by his parents, wives Le Vevia Straight Johnston and Dorothy O. Cary Johnston, sister Frances Engel and an infant son. Memorials to West Nebraska Veteran's Home.