Russell "Russ" Edward Johnston, 81, passed away Monday, November 8, 2021 at his home. Born in Chicago, IL Russ was the son of the late John & Pearl Johnston. Russ graduated from South Side High School & attended Purdue University. He worked for International Harvester for 46 years prior to his retirement and an additional 6 years on contract. During his
52 years with IH, Russ worked at the Fort Wayne and Springfield plants as well as Fort Wayne Engineering/APA. It was at IH where he met his wife, Margaret Eager and they were married 41 years.
Russ enjoyed reading, walking, biking, traveling, working in his yard and watching historical documentaries. He also loved all forms of car racing, especially Formula 1 and Indy car. Racing became a family event that Russ and the entire family enjoyed.
Surviving is his wife, Margaret Johnston; sons, Mark (Loree) Johnston; Jeff (Marie) Johnston; granddaughters, Lindsay Johnston and Hannahlee Johnston; sister, Kathleen (Tim) Allwein and ex-wife Sandy Ayres. A private graveside service will be at Scipio Cemetery, Harlan, IN. A Celebration of Life Open House will be held Sunday 11/28/2021 3:00-6:00 pm at Country Heritage Winery - Event Center, 0185 County Road 68, LaOtto, IN.
Memorials may be made to Humane Fort Wayne or DeKalb County SPCA. Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services is handling arrangements.