Gary Roger Johnston, 87, of Rochester passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2020 in Rochester, Minnesota.

Gary was born December 20, 1932 in Austin, MN to Al and Mildred (Brooks) Johnston. He graduated from Austin High School in 1951. He attended the Minnesota Bible College in Minneapolis, MN. Gary worked as a system analyst for IBM for 33 years before his retirement in 1991. Gary married Marivon Witt on February 20, 1987.

Gary was an active member in the Hope Summit Christian Church where he performed mission work, was an elder, and the superintendent of Sunday School for many years. Gary loved traveling to the Northshore and hunting for agates – so much so that he made this his tradition for 80 years. He also enjoyed wintering in Arizona for the past 28 years, hunting with his dog, Joker, fishing, motocross, and singing.

Gary is survived by his wife, Marivon; three children, Diane Johnston, Lynn (David) Block, Garth (Kim) Johnston; three stepchildren, Tom Witt, Sandy Nordquist, Kevin Witt; two grandchildren, Andrew (Nicole) Block, Olivia Block; one great-grandson, Christian Block; eight step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Craig Johnston.

Memorials are welcome to Hope Summit Christian Church of Rochester or a charity of your choice.

A private family service will be held. A Celebration of Gary's life will be held at a later date.

Gary's family would like to thank Dr. Thomas Jaeger, Mayo Hospice, the staff at Edenbrook, church friends and family who have helped him throughout his illness.