June 10, 1932-October 20, 2026

Robert Donald Johnston, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on June 10, 1932, in Yakima, Washington, Bob was the cherished son of Ann Fadhl Johnston and Jessie Donald Johnston, who predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his wife Valerie Johnston and his son Gene Johnston. 

Bob relocated to San Francisco after the passing of his father, where he attended Galileo High School, graduating in 1950. His commitment to serving his country led him to the United States Air Force, where he served with distinction as a Master Sergeant from 1951 to 1972. After a dedicated 20-year military career, Bob transitioned to civilian life, working at Frito Lay and Arco. Ever eager to expand his horizons, he pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Redlands in 1985. 

In 2013, Bob married Karen Cox on January 12 in Friendswood, Texas. The two shared a rich and joyous 13 years together, filled with adventures and cherished moments. Bob adored traveling and cruising, often embarking on journeys across the globe with Karen, family, and friends. He was especially fond of entertaining at home, where his quick wit and warm smile made everyone feel welcome. His family and friends fondly remember his favorite cocktail, Tito’s and Tonic, always ready to accompany his stories and laughter. 

Bob’s greatest joy was his family, and spending time with them. Children: Donna Escobar and her husband Michael, Paul Johnston and his wife Pattie, Justin Hilliard, Daniel Hilliard and his wife Lauren. He was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren: Kristin Cariveau and her husband Jacob, Christopher Escobar, April Johnston, Jaxson, Kai, Koby, Jenna, Avery, and Jabo Hilliard, and a loving great-grandfather to six: Evelyn, Frankie, Ava, and William Cariveau, Holland Escobar, and Aiden. Sister-in-law Julie Wendlandt and her husband Gary and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob’s legacy of kindness and warmth lives on through his family, who will forever remember his humor, his stories, and the love he shared with them. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Spectrum Stellis Hospice for their compassionate care in Bob’s final days.

A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held on December 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Jeter Memorial Funeral Home, located at 311 N Friendswood Drive, Friendswood, TX 77546. Internment immediately following at Friends Cemetery, 502 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood, TX 77546.

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bob’s memory to HONOR FLIGHT HOUSTON, an organization that held a special place in his heart.