Charles O. Johnston

Charles O. Johnston, 91, passed away peacefully Friday, July 13, 2012. Charles was born in Manhattan, KS on September 7, 1920 to Charles Otis and Minnie Winona (Augustine) Johnston, Sr. He was one of three children who grew up in Manhattan, KS.

Charles married Ann Louise Martel in August, 1940 and they spent most of their married lives in the Kansas City area. They retired to their Pomme de Terre Lake home, then moved to Springfield, MO and eventually back to the Kansas City area.

Charles is a decorated WWII veteran who received the Purple Heart for injuries received and the Bronze Star for his heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy near the Villa Verde Tail, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 8 May 1945. Upon return to civilian life, Charles joined the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and retired in 1979 after 30 years of service.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Ann Louise; parents, Charles O. and Minnie Winona Johnston Sr. and two siblings, Phyllis Pinkston and Marjorie Sluss. He is survived by his five children, Charlotte Ceccoli and husband Bill, Sue Fitzgerald, James Johnston, Gary Johnston, Denise Johnston and husband Daniel Ryan; 11 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 13 great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 23rd, at McGilley State Line Chapel, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., the funeral service held at 11:00 a.m., with burial following in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Raytown, MO.