JOHNSTON, Michael Burton Johnston

Passed away peacefully at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital in Bracebridge on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the age of 74.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Jennifer Thompson, her husband Dallon, and his two cherished grandchildren, Alexandra, age 10, and Benjamin, age 4. He is also survived by his older brother, Peter Johnston.

Michael Burton Johnston was a beloved uncle to Lisa Ball (Andy), Bryan Johnston (Brennagh Burns), Shawn van Sligtenhorst, and Corey van Sligtenhorst, and a proud great-uncle to Lily and Maddie Ball; Dylan, Aodhan, and Saoirse Johnston; and C.J. and Harper van Sligtenhorst. He was predeceased by his parents, Lester and Jean Johnston (née McGillis), who were well known in Gravenhurst, as well as his older sister, Donna van Sligtenhorst (Gil).

A lifelong Gravenhurst resident, Michael was truly a hometown boy at heart. Aside from a brief time in Calgary – where his daughter Jennifer was born – he spent his life in the community he loved. He attended Gravenhurst High School (Class of 1966) and Georgian College (Class of 1971), and went on to build a long career as an insurance broker, including his time with Johnston and Associates. In more recent years, he worked as both a driver and dispatcher for Hammond Transportation, a role he thoroughly enjoyed for the simple reason that it allowed him to connect with and talk to people – something he did so naturally.

Michael will be remembered by many as one of the kindest and gentlest people they had ever met. He was deeply loyal, genuinely caring, and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Above all else, he was devoted to his family. He was a proud and loving father, uncle and an adoring “Poppa,” whose love for his daughter and grandchildren was evident in everything he did.

He found his greatest joy in time spent with Alexandra and Benjamin. Whether he was playing Hot Wheels with Ben, sitting down for card games, or proudly attending Alex’s plays and dance recitals, he was always fully present—engaged, attentive, and full of quiet encouragement. He also loved joining his family on outings and adventures, from CFL football games, Toronto Blue Jays baseball games, or museum visits, pumpkin patches, and Christmas light displays.

Michael treasured time at the family cottage in Torrence, where countless memories were made. Days spent relaxing on the dock, swimming, and evenings filled with board games and cards will be fondly remembered for years to come.

A devoted sports fan, Michael was a lifelong supporter of the Toronto Maple Leafs, always holding onto the hope that they would turn it around “next year.” He shared a friendly hockey rivalry with his brother Peter, an Ottawa Senators fan. He also followed the Toronto Argonauts and enjoyed attending games with his daughter and son-in-law, even if they cheered for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He was known to sport Rider green a few times, but only if Toronto wasn’t playing. Mike was there with his daughter and son-in-law to witness the Argos’ historic 100th Grey Cup win in Toronto in 2012.

Michael found comfort in life’s simple pleasures: a Tim Hortons coffee, the daily newspaper, and regular coffee visits with his brother Peter. In his younger years, he was an active member of the Lions Club. He also enjoyed hobbies such as coin collecting and reading, with a particular interest in military and aviation history, a passion influenced by his father, who served as a gunner on a Lancaster bomber during the war.

He had a genuine curiosity about the lives of those he loved, always taking a sincere interest in their experiences and accomplishments. Nothing made him happier than seeing his family succeed, and he took great pride in each and every one of them.

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held in Gravenhurst in July. Details will be shared at a later date. Memorial donations to Parkinson Research would be appreciated and may be arranged online or through Cavill Funeral Home.

The Celebration of Life will be held on Sat July 18th 2026 at the Terry Fox Auditorium in Gravenhurst from 1-4 pm with a short program at the beginning.