1936-2020

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of long-time Olga resident, Joanne L. Johnston (née Stone) on May 16, 2020. She died at her Olga home surrounded by her family. She was born in Tacoma Jan. 21, 1936, and grew up in Orting. After getting married she moved to Waltham, Massachusetts, and then returned to Auburn, Washington, before retiring to Orcas Island. Joanne spent her whole life visiting the family farm in Olga that was purchased by her great grandfather, William Cline, in 1910. Her grandfather was longtime Olga resident Edward J. Young.

Joanne is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, William J Johnston; daughter, Karen Johnston; son, Keith Johnston (Giuliana); grandson David Lorse (Michela); grandson Daniel Lorse; granddaughter Sarah Lorse; and two brothers, Malcom and Edward Stone and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leslie and Marjorie Stone of Olga.

Joanne worked in banking most of her career. She loved genealogy, gardening, traveling the country in her motorhome, walking with friends and reading. She volunteered as a genealogical researcher for the Orcas Museum.