Alan Johnston, 73, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on July 29, 2026.
Born June 20, 1953, in Hull, East Yorkshire, England to the late John Johnston and Valerie (McMillan) Johnston.
At age 5, the family emigrated to the US when his father took a position with Dr Scholl. The family settled in Michigan City, Indiana, where Alan spent the rest of his life.
Upon graduation from Elston High School in Michigan City, Alan began employment at Arno Tapes. With the closing of Arno, Alan moved on to employment with Bethlehem Steel. He took a break from the steel mills with a position at the South Shore Railroad, eventually working his way up to train engineer. He returned to the steel mills where he trained and qualified as a millwright until his retirement.
Not only did he have skills as a millwright, but he was a master craftsman. He built an airplane from scratch in his home workshop. There are beautiful pieces of furniture in his home built by him, some of which are accented by stained glass of his own making. His craftsmanship is evident in his beautiful home in the woods. Alan, Cheri, family and friends built that home from the ground up. To have that vision and the fortitude, skill and ability to carry out that vision is remarkable unto itself.
Alan became a US citizen in 1977 and served his adopted country in the US Army. As a Warrant Officer Candidate, he learned to fly “Huey” helicopters, one of the highlights of his flying career. He transferred to the Indiana National Guard where he rose to the rank of first lieutenant and became the executive officer of a local engineering unit. His exceptional service earned him the Indiana Commendation Medal.
Along the way, while working full time, serving his country and being a husband and father to an ever-growing family, Alan earned his associate’s degree from Purdue University.
He loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and rode every opportunity that weather would allow, even though the weather didn’t always cooperate en route. He made multiple cross-country trips to Sturgis, Daytona and Rolling Thunder in Washington, D.C. to honor veterans.
His love of flying continued after his military service. After being a part-owner of a Piper aircraft, he was happy to become the owner of a Grumman Tiger aircraft. His aircraft was recognized wherever he went because of the Tony the Tiger painted on the tail. He was an excellent pilot.
He was extremely proud of his Scottish heritage. He became a leader in Johnston clan gatherings at highland games throughout the year. He and his wife, Cheri, were hosts at the Johnston tent at these gatherings. He cut quite the figure in his Johnston tartan kilt.
Alan was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, Harley Owners Group, Military Officers Association of America and Clan Johnston/e in America.
At some point in his life, Alan found and committed his life to the Lord. He became a youth group leader, made multiple missionary trips to Haiti, and lived his life as an example of a truly good Christian man. He was a leader in Bible study groups and prayer groups. He was just a good man. His family is consoled knowing that he is face to face with Jesus and those that have gone on before him in heaven right now.
Surviving Alan are his wife, Cheri; children, Jennifa (Brian) Thomas, Matthew Johnston, Elizabeth "Liz" (Eric) Phillips, Aaron Johnston, and Sarah (Vic) Walker; 19 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Ian and Trevor Johnston.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Rebekah.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the La Porte First Church of God with Pastor Rick Jones and Pastor Jeff Zigler officiating. Following the service, there will be a processional to Greenwood Cemetery in Michigan City where burial with Full Military Honors will take place. Motorcyclists are welcome to be a part of that procession.
Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of service at the church on Thursday. In honor of Alan, please wear a Hawaiian attire.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the La Porte First Church of God, 2020 E. Lincolnway, La Porte, IN 46350 or to Trans World Radio (TWR), PO Box 8700, Cary, NC 27512.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.cutlercares.com.
