Robert Glenn Johnston Sr.

Robert Glenn "Bob" Johnston Sr., 92, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, humility, hard work, and family that will endure for generations.  Born on April 28, 1934, in Webster, Pennsylvania, Bob lived a remarkable life centered around the values that meant the most to him: devotion to family, helping others, and doing things the right way.

Bob was the son of the late John D. Johnston Jr. and Ethel M. Andree Johnston of Monongahela, Pennsylvania.  Growing up in Monongahela during a simpler era, he often shared stories about his childhood that became treasured family memories.  He spoke fondly of hunting with his brother Jack, sharing a bicycle with his siblings, playing baseball, swimming in the river, and attending sporting events that he could recall in astonishing detail decades later.  Bob possessed an incredible memory and had a gift for storytelling. Family members often marveled at his ability to remember names, statistics, dates, and events from many years ago. His stories connected generations and ensured that family history would never be forgotten.

Bob dedicated twenty-eight years of service to Union Camp, where he worked faithfully until his retirement on May 1, 1997.  He took tremendous pride in working hard, providing for his family, and serving as an example for his children and grandchildren.  Bob believed there was a right way to do things, often referred to by family members as "the Johnston way," and he lived that principle every day.  Whether it was repairing something, caring for his property, helping a neighbor, or giving advice to his children, Bob approached every task with honesty, determination, and pride.

While Bob was proud of many accomplishments throughout his life, nothing compared to the pride he felt for his family.  He often said that his children were what kept him going, and there was never a conversation that lasted long before he started talking about one of his children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren.  He celebrated every achievement, no matter how large or small, and considered his family to be his greatest blessing.  Those who knew him quickly learned that if they asked Bob about his family, they should be prepared to hear stories for quite some time.  His love for them had no limits.

At the center of Bob's life was the love story that defined him.  On March 26, 1955, he married Nancy L. Everson, the love of his life.  Their 65-year marriage was built on devotion, loyalty, friendship, and unconditional love.  Even after Nancy's passing, Bob's devotion to her never wavered.  He faithfully visited her gravesite every Monday, a tradition he maintained because he loved and missed her deeply every single day.  He often spoke of Nancy with admiration and gratitude, and those closest to him knew that his heart never stopped belonging to her. Family members find comfort in knowing that Bob is now reunited with his beloved Nancy, the woman he considered the greatest blessing of his life.  Bob often referred to Nancy as his winning lottery ticket.

Bob was a loving and devoted father to his four children: Robert Johnston Jr. (Andrea), Vicki Lea Stechly, (the late David Stechly), Donald S. Johnston (Diana), and Lisa M. Chipps (Darren).  Bob’s role as a father extended far beyond providing for his family.  He was a teacher, coach, advisor, protector, handyman, landscaper, problem solver, and best friend.  He was always available when someone needed help. Whether it involved fixing a problem, offering advice, lending a hand, or simply listening… he was there.  His children never doubted how much he loved them.

One of Bob's greatest joys was being present for the people he loved. Through the years, he could be found in the stands, on the sidelines, or in the audience at countless sporting events, school functions, dance performances, ceremonies, graduations, and other family milestones. Whether it was one of his children competing, a grandchild receiving an award, or a great-grandchild participating in an activity, Bob made every effort to be there. He took genuine pride in celebrating the accomplishments of his family and believed showing up was one of the most important ways to demonstrate love and support.  His family knew that whenever there was an important event, there was a good chance Pap Pap would be there cheering them on.  His presence, encouragement, and pride created memories that his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will cherish forever.

Bob's family continued to grow and became the center of his world.  He is survived by ten grandchildren: Ian Johnston (Megan), Lieutenant Colonel Cassandra Cowher (David), Colin Johnston (Lexus), Justin Stechly (Sara), Jesse Stechly (Sara), Sarah Johnston, Scott Johnston, Alaina Johnston, Easton Chipps, and Kylie Chipps.  He was equally proud of his eleven great-grandchildren: Lincoln Johnston, Daniel Cowher, Rebecca Cowher, Jacob Cowher, Koy Johnston, Kowen Johnston, Kopelyn Johnston, Kopper Johnston, Jovie Stechly, Ziva Stechly, and Luca Stechly.  Every one of them brought joy, laughter, and purpose to his life. Bob proudly followed their accomplishments and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.

One of Bob's greatest sources of pride was his family's service to their country.  He was an enthusiastic supporter of the military and was especially proud of his grandchildren who served or continue to serve their country.  Their commitment to service was something he spoke about often and with tremendous pride.

Bob is also survived by his sisters, Faye Shevel, and Catherine (Joan) Paolini, and two sisters-in-law, Janice Johnston and Karen Johnston.  In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Betty Pyle, Ruth Gast, John "Jack" Johnston, and Howard Johnston.  Family was always important to Bob, and the stories he shared about his brothers and sisters kept their memories alive for those who came after them.

Those who knew Bob will remember him as someone who genuinely cared about people.  He would help anyone who needed assistance and could strike up a conversation with a stranger as easily as with a lifelong friend.  His kindness was natural, his generosity was constant, and his sense of humor was legendary.  His children recall his endless wisecracks and jokes that often arrived at just the right moment. Many family traditions and inside jokes will live on because of him, including his unwavering belief that somehow every cat seemed to come from Ohio.  His laughter and quick wit brightened the lives of those around him and created memories that will be cherished forever.  Bob loved growing sunflowers and consistently showed them off to anyone who visited him. 

Bob loved animals and often had a stray cat hanging around outside the house consistently looking to him for a kind pat, a kind word, or a small morsel of food.  Bob often cared for his daughter’s dog Ralphie who he referred to as “crazy” as he was never sure whether Ralphie would welcome him to the house or attack him with the vengeance of a rabid beast.    

Bob enjoyed the simple pleasures in life.  He loved working outdoors and rarely sat still for long.  He took great pride in helping maintain his daughter's property and was always looking for ways to make life easier for the people he loved.  He would even retrieve her mail and newspaper because he worried about her crossing the road.  It was a small act that perfectly reflected his nature: always caring, always watching out for others, and always putting family first.

When he was not outdoors, Bob enjoyed sorting puzzles, watching sports, and especially cheering for the Pittsburgh Penguins.  He loved sharing stories about games he had attended over the years and could often recall details that others had long forgotten.  He also enjoyed life's sweeter pleasures, including donuts and berry pie, both of which brought a smile to his face.  “Every donut is good; some are just better than others.”

A special place in Bob's life was occupied by his dear friend and neighbor, Mike Caltuna.  Mike treated Bob with dignity, kindness, and respect, and their daily conversations became one of the highlights of Bob's day.  The Johnston family is deeply grateful for the friendship Mike shared with Bob and the care he showed throughout the years.  Bob loved Mike like a son.

To his family, Pap Pap was the ultimate role model.  He taught them humility, respect, loyalty, perseverance, how to work hard and more than anything else, the importance of family.  Through his example, he showed that a successful life is measured not by what you acquire, but by the people you love and the lives you touch.  His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren feel incredibly blessed to have called him Dad, Pap Pap, Pappy, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, friend, mentor and role model.

Although his family mourns his passing, they take comfort in knowing that he will be reunited with Nancy, the love of his life.  The family imagines him once again sharing stories, talking proudly about the family he built, recounting sports statistics from decades ago, and reminding everyone of the values that mattered most.  His legacy lives on through every member of the Johnston family and through the countless people whose lives were made better simply because they knew him.

Bob Johnston was truly one of a kind.  He loved deeply, laughed often, worked hard, and gave selflessly.  He leaves behind a family that adored him, a legacy that will endure forever, and memories that will be cherished for generations.

Well done, Pap Pap.  You set the standard.  You were the greatest husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend anyone could ask for.  You taught us that family comes first, that hard work matters, and that showing up for the people you love is one of life's greatest gifts. You were number one in every category, and your family will carry your legacy forward with pride.  You will be missed beyond measure and loved forever.  You said it first, but we love you most.

Friends will be received on Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 P.M. in the Warco-Falvo Funeral Home, Inc., Wilson at East Katherine Ave., Washington, S. Timothy Warco, Owner/Supervisor, S. Timothy Warco II, Director, Holly Renay Warco, Director.  A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, September 4, 2026 in the funeral home.  Interment will follow in Monongahela Cemetery.  Full military rites will be accorded by the American Legion Edwin Scott Linton Post # 175 and the United States Army.  Contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Olivia Scott Foundation at https://oliviascottfoundation.com/.  Condolences may be expressed at www.WarcoFalvoFuneralHome.com