In Memory Of

Valerie Gay Johnston

Jan 19, 1941 - Dec 7, 2025

Notice

A private family ceremony will be held at a later date.

Obituary

Knowing that we are not defined by what we own, but by our actions and how we love is a notion many aspire to live by. Valerie Johnston embodied this truth in the way she lived, loved and gave, without pretense or restraint.

Even as dementia gradually took pieces of her memory, Val’s true nature never wavered. Her kindness, generosity, and deep capacity for love remained firmly intact. As the disease progressed, her earliest memories rose to the surface. The memories of her parents, her siblings, and the many family members she loved so fiercely were what she knew to be real. These relationships were central to who she always was and lived close to her heart.

Val was, above all else, a true giver, of her time, her energy, and her kindness. The most important thing in her life was the people she loved, her five children, her many grandchildren, her siblings and parents, and the close friends she welcomed into her circle. Anyone who knew her quickly understood how deeply she prioritized others. She noted people and all furry friends, appreciated them, and was always willing to help them in whatever way she could.

Val always worked to have what mattered most love, connection, experiences and people, rather than money or material things. She gave quietly and without expectation, simply because that was who she was. Caring for others came naturally to her, shaped early by her upbringing as the eldest of seven children in a family that learned to rely on one another. Raised during times when resources were scarce and resilience was essential, she learned at a young age the value of family, shared responsibility, and looking out for others. These were the lessons she carried with her throughout her life, and shared with her own children and grandchildren.

Val lived simply and was deeply grateful for even the smallest things. Time with family, a visit with a friend, a cup of tea or a glass of rum, a quick outing to a local shop, a drive across the open prairies, or a full weekend in the mountains; all of these would bring her so much joy. She never took anything for granted and would often pause to express her gratitude. This simplicity was not a reflection of any kind of limitation, but of a life enriched by love, connection, and empathy. These were the gifts that truly mattered to her and brought her a deep sense of contentment.

She was an extraordinary grandmother and a constant source of support. Her legacy lives on in the people she loved and cared for, in the values she modelled, and in the reminder she leaves us all: A life well lived is rooted in family, kindness, gratitude, and generosity of spirit.

She will be missed more than words can say and remembered for always.

Condolences

Karin Nijenhuis:

Our condolences, to Lori, Shane ,Zac and Raleigh. i know that the last years were hard, but try to remember the good times. I remember Christmas dinners together. Those were fun.

Karin and Henk Nijenhuis:

Our condolences Lori, Shane, Zac and Rayleigh. Haven't seen Vall in the last few years, but she would not have remembered me. But we remember the nice Christmas dinners we had here at our house. Dementia is such an awful disease.

Nikki Johnson:

I have only met Val. She stayed with my dad in memory lane. I have hugged her and tried to always come and say hi to her the last year. Rub her feet or hold her hand, maybe catch a smile.You could feel her gentle soul flow out her body. I am happy that she finally can go to her resting place. I am happy read she was greatly loved.

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