Lynn Gordon Johnston, age 81, passed away suddenly in his home on September 26, 2022.
Born February 9, 1941, to Lynn and Helen Johnston of Seattle, WA, he attended Cleveland Elementary School and Mercer Island High School, where he made life-long friends. He went on to Seattle Pacific University, then transferred to the University of Washington, where he earned a BA in English and a teaching certificate. He began his career by teaching English and Art at Union Gap Middle School in eastern Washington. Then he taught secondary level Language Arts and Advertising in the Bellevue and Seattle School Districts. He also coached swimming. An articulate, popular, and charismatic teacher, Gordon was noted for his intelligence, wit, creativity, enthusiasm, and ability to help students learn and discover their own talents. An avid reader himself, he encouraged his students to become life-long readers.
In the summers, Gordon worked for his father's painting company. He also worked in an antique store in Pioneer Square in Seattle, where he restored antique furniture and acquired many pieces he enjoyed in his home throughout his life.
In the late 80s, Gordon moved to Portland, OR. There he remodeled houses in Eastmoreland and Laurelhurst, as well as, his own home on Halleck Street, doing much of the work himself.
Gordon was multi-talented: a published author and photographer, he enjoyed writing poetry, oil painting, landscaping, and gardening. He spent many years revising and perfecting the "secret garden " surrounding his own home. Gordon also loved visiting the local waterfalls and often invited friends to join him in viewing their spectacular beauty.
In addition, for several years, Gordon volunteered in a City of Portland Commissioner's office as a liason with the public. He helped many with his problem-solving skills.
Everyone who knew Gordon will remember his intelligence, charm, and wit, and miss having such interesting conversations. With Gordon, there was never a dull moment. Those who took care of him during his struggle with Parkinsons and COPD will remember his courage and resolve to resist these illnesses as long as possible. He fought so long and so bravely. Those who loved him knew his kindness, warmth, goodness, wisdom, compassion, generosity, laughter, and abiding friendship. They will always remember him and miss him deeply.
May the angels carry him to his eternal home. Rest in God's peace and love, dearest Gordon.
Born February 9, 1941, to Lynn and Helen Johnston of Seattle, WA, he attended Cleveland Elementary School and Mercer Island High School, where he made life-long friends. He went on to Seattle Pacific University, then transferred to the University of Washington, where he earned a BA in English and a teaching certificate. He began his career by teaching English and Art at Union Gap Middle School in eastern Washington. Then he taught secondary level Language Arts and Advertising in the Bellevue and Seattle School Districts. He also coached swimming. An articulate, popular, and charismatic teacher, Gordon was noted for his intelligence, wit, creativity, enthusiasm, and ability to help students learn and discover their own talents. An avid reader himself, he encouraged his students to become life-long readers.
In the summers, Gordon worked for his father's painting company. He also worked in an antique store in Pioneer Square in Seattle, where he restored antique furniture and acquired many pieces he enjoyed in his home throughout his life.
In the late 80s, Gordon moved to Portland, OR. There he remodeled houses in Eastmoreland and Laurelhurst, as well as, his own home on Halleck Street, doing much of the work himself.
Gordon was multi-talented: a published author and photographer, he enjoyed writing poetry, oil painting, landscaping, and gardening. He spent many years revising and perfecting the "secret garden " surrounding his own home. Gordon also loved visiting the local waterfalls and often invited friends to join him in viewing their spectacular beauty.
In addition, for several years, Gordon volunteered in a City of Portland Commissioner's office as a liason with the public. He helped many with his problem-solving skills.
Everyone who knew Gordon will remember his intelligence, charm, and wit, and miss having such interesting conversations. With Gordon, there was never a dull moment. Those who took care of him during his struggle with Parkinsons and COPD will remember his courage and resolve to resist these illnesses as long as possible. He fought so long and so bravely. Those who loved him knew his kindness, warmth, goodness, wisdom, compassion, generosity, laughter, and abiding friendship. They will always remember him and miss him deeply.
May the angels carry him to his eternal home. Rest in God's peace and love, dearest Gordon.