Eleanor C. Johnston, passed away at Mabie Skilled Nursing Center Saturday, Sept. 8, 2007, at the age of 94 years. Eleanor was a native of Merced, CA, a graduate of Merced High School and moved to San Benito County 60 years ago. As a child, Eleanor benefited from the qualities of a very close knit family and she exemplified those qualities of hard work, trust, sharing, and helping others during her life as she raised her own family, worked along side her late husband Harvey K. Johnston on their walnut ranch, and within the community and fraternal organizations she belonged to. Eleanor was a member of the Old Mission San Juan Bautista Parish: she worked 40 plus years in their office and gift shop and taught CCD classes. Her memberships also included Native Daughters of the Golden West Parlor No. 179 of San Juan Bautista; Yosemite Institute No. 117, Y.L.I.; the Catholic Daughters; and the Legion of Mary. “Among her talents was her ability to prepare fabulous meals, her interest in music–as an accomplished pianist and singer; and growing beautiful flowers and wonderful vegetables in her garden”, said her daughters, Cece and Sharon Johnston of Hollister. Eleanor was the last of six siblings of her family and is survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Thursday Sept.,13th from 1:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. at Grunnagle Ament Nelson Funeral Home, 870 San Benito St., Hollister, and at the Old Mission San Juan Bautista, 2nd and Mariposa Streets, beginning at 6:30 P.M. with the recitation of the rosary at 7:00 P.M. Family and friends will meet at the Old Mission Friday morning at 9:30 A.M. for a Mass of the Resurrection beginning at l0:00 A.M. Interment: San Juan Cemetery. Donations are preferred to N.D.G.W. Mission Restoration Fund or to Pet Friends, c/o the funeral home chapel.
