David J. Johnston, 79, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at home surrounded by his family. He was born to the late Kenneth and Beverly (Burtch) Johnston on June 10, 1945 in Fort Wayne. He graduated from North Side High School in 1963. He was a member of American Legion Post 499. Dave was a proud US Army veteran and served in Vietnam. He retired from Slater Steel after over 30 years and then worked for the Lutheran Rehabilitation Hospital as a van driver for eight years. Dave was an avid fan of Purdue University, the Fort Wayne Tincaps and Purdue Fort Wayne athletics. He loved going on bus trips and traveling. Dave loved his family and especially his grandchildren.

Dave is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Karen Johnston; son, Brad (Denise) Johnston of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Ethan, Abby, and Eric Johnston; brother, John (Stella) Johnston of Indianapolis; sister, Joan Ott of Fort Wayne; beloved pet, Finn; and a host of relatives and friends. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Pete Johnston (1993).

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 11:00 am with visitation one hour prior at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church (4916 Trier Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815). Visitation will also be on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services (6557 N. Clinton Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46825). Burial will follow the service to Highland Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Wounded Warriors Project.