Howard F. Johnston – Jefferson Township, Fayette County
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP Howard F. Johnston, 81, of Jefferson Township, Fayette County, passed away on Sund a y , April 12, 2026, at Jefferson Hospital. He was born in Monong ahela o n March 6, 1945, to Ethel and John Johnston. Howard graduated from Monongahela High School in 1964 and attended Eastern Nazarene College in the ’60s. He was a member of the Monongahela Church of the Nazarene that his grandfather, the Rev. Paul Andre, founded. Over the years, Howard worked for Combustion Engineering, U.S. Steel, where he completed training as an instrument repairman, and for ABB. Using his training and experience, he later performed work as an independent contractor. All who knew him well were aware his number one favorite job was ski patrol at Seven Springs Resort, where he made many friends over the years “on the mountain” and sadly resigned as his health declined. Howard and his wife, Karen, very much enjoyed the gym and the parks (Ohiopyle, South Park, Mingo and Cedar Creek), working out, running and walking for many years. Also in his younger years, running the 5K and 10K races. Howard was always willing to help others as neighbors, friends and family will agree. He was a volunteer fireman in Monongahela; he coached his children’s baseball teams and for years; and he helped place and remove flags at cemeteries in the area. He knew people everywhere he went, and everyone enjoyed knowing him. Howard loved all sports, especially the Pitt Panthers. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Karen (Trunzo) Johnston; a son, Matthew (U.S. Coast Guard) Johnston and wife Megan (special education teacher) and two very athletic grandsons, Taytum and Kellen, all of whom he was extremely proud; two sisters, Faye Shevel and Joan Paolini; and a brother, Robert Johnston. Preceding him in death along with his parents were daughter, Kathryn “Katie” Sue Johnston, on April 13, 2011; two sisters, Ruth Gast and Betty Pyle; and brother, John “Jack” Johnston. “I’ll be seeing you in all the old familiar places!” Love, Karen. At Howard’s request, there will not be a viewing. MARSHALL MARRA FUNERAL HOME, 216 Chess St., Monongahela, 724-2586767, was in charge of his arrangements. Internment was held in Monongahela Cemetery. Friends may contribute to their favorite charity in memory if they choose. Howard favored the military charities. Condolences can be made at marshallmarrafuneralhome. com.
