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of Chelsea, Michigan, Age 92, died Tuesday, October 19, 2021 at Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Village; after a long and valiant battle with vascular dementia. He was born September 23, 1929 in Jackson, Michigan, the son of George Miles & Faye (Corley) Johnston.  Norman graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1947, and earned an Agricultural Degree from Michigan State University. He served in the United States Army from 1951-1953. Norman was a master level machinist, spending 34 years at the University of Michigan’s Chemistry Department, enabling important research and assisted in educating generations of students. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, and served on several ministries. Upon retirement he continued to use his machinist skills as a hobby producing working model engines and other intricate projects. Norm was loved for his quick wit, ability to fix anything, and devotion to family and friends.

On January 13, 1951, he married Mary Ann Mannlein at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, and she preceded him in death on November 14, 2020. Survivors include his children: Peggy A. Tripp of Virginia Beach, VA, Karen M. (Anderson Brown) Johnston of Ann Arbor, Diane L. Wilson of Howell, James N. (Deborah) Johnston of Ft. Myers, FL, Kenneth A. (Violet) Johnston of Millersburg, MI; Catherine M. (James) Jackson of Ypsilanti, and David L. (Theresa Street) Johnston of Norfolk, VA; 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Marjorie C. Kosch.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, Oct 25, 11:00 am at St. Joseph Catholic Village Church, 3450 Dover Street in Dexter, with Fr. Brendan J. Walsh presiding. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Dexter. The family will receive friends Sunday 2-4 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice or St. Joseph Catholic Church for the “Together in Faith & Fellowship” Campaign.

Click here to view the video of Norm's funeral mass


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Comments  

#1 Guy Mannlein 2021-10-22 10:41
To all my Johnston cousins:
Sorry for your loss, though we know he is in a better place now.
I wish I could come and help celebrate his life. What a talented man! A few years back he showed me some of his beautiful creations. Very Impressive! I know we all have fond memories of when we were kids and were all together for the holidays. I sure do!

My condolences
Guy
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