David Johnston

David was born in Montreal, the only son of Dr. Bernard Johnston and Agnes Tennant Johnston. He attended St.George’s school and made many life-long friends there. As a young man he moved to England and worked for British Rail as a signalman for over a decade. After his return to Canada he undertook a mid-life change of career and completed a degree at Concordia University in Teaching English as a Second Language. David then worked at the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and would return back to his home on Avenue de l’Esplanade in Montreal during the summer months. Throughout his 25 years teaching ESL to young Saudis, “Mr David” was loved and respected by his students and recognized for distinguished teaching by his colleagues, garnering an Award of Excellence prior to his retirement in 2016.

David was a staunch and supportive friend with a quick wit and wry sense of humour. He was an acute commentator on daily life and current affairs; he will be sorely missed and mourned by his family and friends, both locally and around the globe.

A celebration of David’s life will follow when public health directives will allow.