Eugene A. 'Gene' Johnston, 67, of Curwensville passed away after a courageous battle against cancer on Thursday, February 4, 2016. He passed away at his home with his wife at his side.

He was born on August 31, 1948 in Philipsburg, a son of the late Woodrow A. and Helen E. (Cruikshank) Johnston.

After graduating high school, Gene went to work for Michael Baker Construction in Rochester before being drafted in the U.S. Army, serving during the Vietnam Era. Upon his honorable discharge and being awarded the bronze medal for his service, Gene worked at Green Construction Co., helping build the Raystown Lake Dam. He had also been employed by Amos L. Dolby Explosive Co. in Clarion and the D.C. Guelich Explosive Co. in Clearfield. Gene then began his employment with Penelec, Clearfield and retired in 2012 after 34 years of service as a lineman. Gene had an incredible work ethic; however, he will be remembered by family and friends for enjoying his afternoon naps when he had the chance.
He was affiliated with the Curwensville Presbyterian Church and a life member of the Curwensville Rescue Hose and Ladder Company. In his younger years, Gene belonged to the Curwensville Fire Police and was on the board of the Curwensville Ambulance Association.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia 'Patty' (Leonard) Johnston whom he wed September 21, 1974 in St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, Grampian; a son, Cory Kenneth Johnston and wife Devon of Clearfield; three granddaughters, Eloise Anne, Dinah Jean and Audra Joy Johnston; his granddog 'Boo'; two aunts, Thelma 'Taffy' Cruikshank of CA and Donna Tubbs of Luthersburg; two sisters-in-law, Nancy Duffalo of DuBois and Louise Delio of Falls Creek; three brothers-in-law, John Leonard, Tom Leonard and Steve Leonard and wife Janice, all of Curwensville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth A. Johnston.

Funeral services will be held at the Kevin A Beardsley Funeral Home, Clearfield on Monday at 10 AM with Pastor Daniel Osterhout officiating. Interment will follow in the Crown Crest Memorial Park, Hyde.

Military Honors will be accorded at the cemetery by the members of the Clearfield American Legion and VFW Honor Guard.

Friends will be received at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-5 PM and on Monday from 9-10 AM.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to charity of choice.

To sign the on-line guestbook go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.