Erland O. Johnston, 91, a resident of Cove’s Edge in Damariscotta for the past six years, passed away on Nov. 19. He was born in Jefferson, the son of Orla and Mildred Johnston, on Feb. 17, 1920.
Erland grew up in Jefferson and Damariscotta in the 1920s and 30s, graduated from Lincoln Academy in 1938, and in 1939 the family moved to the farm in Jefferson. The farm was a full time job in the early days, with milk and beef cattle, sheep, pigs, chickens, gardens and apple orchards. In 1946, he and his brother, Dick, started Johnston Brothers, working in the woods and hauling gravel, as well as paving driveways for many years. Erland drove trucks, operated heavy equipment, worked on the crew and kept the books for the business until his retirement in 1986. They kept the farm going as well, working seven days a week.
Erland married Joanne Vose on Aug. 30, 1986. They were pronounced husband and wife in an airplane flying over the Bunker Hill Church, as the church bell rang and family and friends cheered from below. This was fitting, as he loved airplanes and was a pilot in his younger days.
When Erland fell in love with Jo, he also fell in love with her passion for antiques. Together they ran Bunker Hill Antiques and traveled throughout New England to antique shows. He also enjoyed vacationing in Aruba, and doted on his beloved red and white cat, Diamond.
Erland had a high regard for his Alma Mater, Lincoln Academy; he served as a Trustee for many years, and was recognized as one of a select group of Honorary Trustees until his death. He was a member of the Bunker Hill Grange for 65 years, serving two terms as Master. He was also a Mason, Moderator and a member of the Bunker Hill Baptist Church for many years, and was a Corporator of Bath Savings Institution.
Erland was predeceased by his brothers, Burton (at the age of 2), Donald, and Leon; and sister, Marion Wright.
He is survived by his wife, Joanne Vose Johnston of Jefferson; brother, Richard Johnston of Jefferson; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
There will be a private burial in the Weeks Cemetery in Jefferson 11 a.m., Wed., Nov. 23. Memorial service 11 a.m., Sat., Dec. 3 at the Bunker Hill Baptist Church in Jefferson with a reception to follow in the Ladies Aid Hall.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to do so may make memorial contributions in his name to any of the following organizations that were near and dear to his heart: Lincoln Academy, c/o Kathe Cheska, Development Director, 81 Academy Hill, Newcastle, ME 04553; the Damariscotta Baptist Church, 4 Bristol Rd., Damariscotta, ME 04543; the Bunker Hill Baptist Church, c/o Mark Johnston, 244 Kerns Hill Rd., Manchester, ME 04351; Lincoln County Animal Shelter, PO Box 7, Edgecomb, ME 04556; Miles Memorial Hospital, Julie DeLong, Development Officer, Lincoln County Healthcare, 35 Miles St., Damariscotta, ME 04543; or Cove’s Edge, Julie DeLong, Development Officer, Lincoln County Healthcare, 35 Miles St., Damariscotta, ME 04543.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
