Mark Thomas Johnston, age 57, of Hudson, president of Marine Associates in Hudson, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2010, at Hudson Hospital.
Mark was born on May 22, 1953, in Rapid City, S.D., the son of J. Thomas and Vivian (Egbert) Johnston. He was raised in Rapid City prior to the Johnstons moving to Hudson where he would graduate from Hudson High School. He would further his education by receiving training on sheet metal fabrication at an Eau Claire vocational school. He worked for a short time in plumbing and heating before joining his father at Marine Associates. He worked his way through the ranks like everyone else. Mark was the driving force for Marine Associates to diversify into gear assembly and not only props and rudders as they have been known for. Up to the day he died, he was actively serving as president. On Sept. 27, 1980, Mark was united in marriage to his best friend and soul mate, Ruthie Nelson, at the United Methodist Church in Hudson.
Mark’s greatest pride was his wife and kids. He took the time for each of his children’s events and hobbies. Whether being active with Hudson Hockey (board of directors), collecting Hot Wheel cars, or spending time outdoors fishing, he cherished every minute with his children. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Ruthie on family vacations. Long weekends or stays at the family cabin on the Chippewa Flowage were most relaxing. Furthermore, he enjoyed a quiet evening and fictional novel or reading Civil War history literature. He was a past member of the Hudson Fire Department and an avid golfer at Badlands Golf Course.
Mark will be fondly remembered by his wife, Ruthie; children, Matthew (Jennifer) Johnston of New Richmond, Andrew Johnston of Nevada, Joanna (fiancé James Catt) of Hudson; his mother, Vivian Johnston of Hudson; and sister, Dena (Bob Bailes) Johnston of Georgia.
He joins his father, J. Thomas Johnston, and sister, Peg Talmage, in death.
Funeral service for Mark Johnston will be 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29, at the United Methodist Church in Hudson. Pastor Ruwal Freese officiating, Mary Post playing the organ, Dan Shimon and Jeff Jarchow singing special music. A eulogy will be read by Ben Wopat. Burial will be in the Willow River Cemetery in Hudson. Casketbearers to be Ted Swanson, Tim Foster, Steven Johnson, Larry Talmage, Bob Bailes, and Duwayne Bakke. Visitation will only be Thursday from 5-8 p.m. at the O'Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson.
Memorials are preferred and will be used to carry on his legacy.
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