Robert L. Johnston

Robert Leslie Johnston, 92, of Candia, NH, passed away peacefully on September 5th, 2025 surrounded by family. Born on August 9, 1933, in Manchester, he grew up on Maynard Ave and attended Hallsville Elementary and Central High School. After school, Bob proudly served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged after an injury left him deaf in one ear.

A skilled carpenter, Bob worked on bridges in Manchester and helped build the Boston Aquarium. He married Grace in 1957 during a snowstorm, and together they raised seven children. Their home was always full of love, laughter, and horses. Bob’s passion for horses led to a family business offering trail rides and summer camps, eventually becoming Winged Spur Farms in Candia.

Despite serious heart and lung issues, Bob lived with resilience and humor, often joking about each birthday being his last. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family, especially fishing trips with his sons.

A man of deep faith, Bob was baptized with his family in 1975 and hosted Bible studies for many years. He was a member of the Methodist Church growing up, as an adult he joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bedford. He looked forward to eternal peace with his beloved wife Grace and hoped to be reunited with all his loved ones in heaven. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Bob loved his family above all else. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Bob is survived by his children Richard Johnston, married to Jill Aylward, and their three children Beau, Megan, and Derick; Patricia (Johnston) Booth, married to John, and their children Lauren and Daniel; Ray Kevin Johnston, and his children Krystal and Scott; Robin Johnston, and her children Heather and Melissa; Jim Johnston, married to Janice Gaudreault, and their children Taylor and Ian; Lori (Johnston) Aguilera, married to Ron, and their children Chelsea and Janelle; and Tammy (Johnston) Levesque, married to Ken, and their son Colton. He also has 13 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends.

Calling Hours for Bob will be held on Tuesday, September 9th from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Phaneuf Funeral Homes, 243 Hanover St. Manchester, NH. His funeral service will take place at the same location on Wednesday, September 10th at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory can be made to the Manchester Seventh Day Adventist Church, 37 Back River rd. Bedford NH, 03110. https://adventistgiving.org/donate/AN4IFG