Virginia Johnston

Virginia Johnston, age 91, formerly of New Philadelphia, died Wednesday, November 11, 2009, in St. Luke’s Lutheran Community at North Canton.A daughter of the late Fred W. and Margaret (Bliss) Gatchell, Virginia was born at Dennison, Ohio on February 4, 1918.She was a graduate of Dennison High School and married Harold C. Johnston on August 6, 1937. Together the couple would rear three sons.Virginia dedicated her life to caring for her husband and sons by cooking and baking for them and spent the summer months canning and preparing for the winter. As her children grew older she found enjoyment in following their sporting activities which included football, baseball and golf. She also enjoyed classic television comedies that included M*A*S*H, Barney Miller, and Cheers.Virginia leaves behind a family that includes two sons, William (Mary Lou) Johnston of North Canton and Daniel (Pamela) Johnston, of Chagrin Falls and a daughter-in-law, Patricia Johnston, of Wooster.Seven grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and twelve step-great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews complete the family. In addition to her parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Harold who died on March 31, 1994; a son, Dr. Timothy Johnston, two sisters, and one brother.The family will receive friends one hour prior to services on Sunday, November 15, 2009, from 2:00 â?? 3:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. Reverend Hugh B. Berry will lead a service celebrating Virginia’s life in the funeral home’s chapel at 3:00 PM. In keeping with Virginia’s wishes, cremation will follow and a private burial will be held in the Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia.