James Jay “Artie” Johnston

James Jay “Artie” Johnston, 48, died Nov. 11 after a four-year battle with cancer.

He was born Jan. 9, 1956, in Spokane, to Alson and Ida Mae Johnston.

The family moved to Bainbridge Island, where he attended school and graduated in 1974.

He enjoyed sports, playing on local softball teams with his many friends.

After high school, he worked a few odd jobs, including a Fish and Wildlife Protection Officer for two summers in Alaska.

In 1980 he became the third generation of Johnstons to work for Pacific Northwest Bell, and stayed with that firm for the next 25 years.

In 1995 he seized an opportunity with work to move his growing family back to his hometown of Spokane.

Once back, he took on a new position in marketing, and later as a field operations supervisor, managing an “elite” team of CD technicians.

He enjoyed flying, camping with his family and swimming in Long Lake. He truly enjoyed life,

He is survived by his wife Gail; parents Ida Mae and Alson; sister Katherine; sons Christopher and Matthew, and daughters Amanda and Nicole.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Nov. 20, at Heritage Funeral Chapel, Spokane.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to: Jim Johnston Children’s Memorial Fund, c/o Sterling Savings Bank, Private Banking, 111 N. Wall, 2nd Floor, Spokane, WA 99201. A trust fund was set up at Washington Mutual in James Johnston’s name by his friends at Qwest.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, Spokane.