A memorial service will be held in Ninil-chik in early May. For additional information, call Robin Keogh at 907-727-4294.

Mr. Johnston was born in San Angelo, Texas, on Feb. 7, 1926, to William Sr. and Robbie Lou (Davidson) Johnston. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, 5th Marine Division, in the Pacific during World War II and was in the battle for the Island of Iwo Jima. He went ashore in the second assault wave and was on Mount Serabachi when the American flag was placed at the top. After 26 days of fighting, he was wounded and evacuated to a ship off shore. He was awarded the purple heart for wounds sustained during that period.

After the war, he became a contractor and sign painter. His work began in San Diego, then to Kenai in 1977, Ninilchik and Anchorage, where he moved several years ago to be close to his daughters and grandchildren.

"Family and friends will remember him for his genuine kindness and generosity and his love for his family," his family said.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, William F. Johnston Jr. of San Angelo; and sister, Laura L. Butler of Kenai.

Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, George Johnston Jr. and wife, Bobbi, of San Diego; daughters, Robin Keogh of Anchorage and Dana Philbrick and her husband, James, of Wasilla; grandchildren, Zachary, Erica and Matthew Keogh of Anchorage, Rachel Johnston and Tate Philbrick of Wasilla and Eric Ward and Brandon James of San Diego; and sister, Betty McEver of Temple, Texas.