This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/Dm.2ADI/1544 Message Board Post: The Tehachapi News, Wednesday, November 8, 2006 Richard (Dick) Johnston of Tehachapi passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 24, at home, surrounded by family, after a valiant 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer Dick was born in Coffeyville, Kan., on October 6, 1938. He resided in California since 1955. He lived in Mojave for 41 years and was employed by Monte's Auto Parts from 1961 until 1990 when he and his wife, Betty, became owners of the Lancaster store from which they retired in 2000. They moved to Tehachapi in 2002. Dick is survived by his loving wife, Betty, with whom he reached his goal of celebrating their 50th anniversary just nine days prior to his passing. He is also survived by his son, Steven and wife, Tracey, of Mojave, and their daughters, Tracey, Steffany and Cassidy; his son, Barry, of Bakersfield; brothers John Blakslee and Everett Blakslee, of Coffeeville, Kan.; brother Dale Blakslee and his wife, Jean, of Grove, Okla; and a sister, Ruby Eikenberry of Leoti, Kan. He was preceded in death by nine other brothers and sisters. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him. Lancaster Masonic Lodge No. 437 presided over services which were held at Wood Family Funeral Home, 321 W. F Street [Bakersfield], Monday, Oct. 30, with interment immediately following at Tehachapi Westside Public Cemetery. We wish to thank all friends, family, acquaintances, doctors and the nursing staff of Antelope Valley Cancer Center for the support given to Dick during his illness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the American Cancer Society in his memory. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ There is also a photo which I will provide to anyone who is interested. I can also take a photo of the headstone when it is installed. Judy