Duane Johnston
February 25, 2021
Duane H. Johnston, 94, of Gainesville, FL, passed away Thursday, February 25, 2021. Duane was born Jan. 31, 1927, in New Castle, PA, to John H. Johnston and Harriet G. Johnston. Mr. Johnston was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ralph G. Johnston, of New Wilmington, PA.
Duane was a graduate of New Wilmington High School. He joined the Navy, qualified in Aircraft Electronics Technical Maintenance, and served on the USS Leyte aircraft carrier. After leaving the Navy, he worked for Goodyear Aircraft, Philco, Harris, and the University of Florida. He retired in 1993.
Duane had a wonderful sense of humor and many interests. He was an adventurous traveler, motorcyclist, sailor, and snow skier. He enjoyed various hobbies: racing sailboats, flying radio-controlled model planes, making pottery, building fireworks and fusing glass.
Memberships included the Florida Chapter of the Pyrotechnics Guild International (FPGI), the Gulf Atlantic Yacht Club (GAYC), the Gainesville Fine Arts Association (GFAA), and as an Altrouser with Altrusa International of Gainesville.
Mr. Johnston is survived by an extended, loving family including: life partner, Marguerite (Mardie) Hankin and family Karl E. (Brenda) Hankin and grandchildren; ex-wife Dorothy McCormic, son Daryl (Sari) Johnston, son Malcolm (Vicki) Johnston, grand and great-grandchildren.
Memorial guest book provided by Crevasse’s Simple Cremation (www.crevassesimplecremation.com).
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Fair sailing winds my friend
I first met Duane sailing on Lake Santa Fe. He introduced me to the Laser boats. Eventually, I purchased an old one he had restored. My family and I spent many happy hours enjoying that yellow Laser. Thanks