Willard Max Johnston, 80, passed away peacefully at home in Concrete, WA on February 6, 2023.  He was born on October 24, 1942, the son of Grady and Binnie (Bridges) Johnston in Madisonville, Tennessee.

Max attended Eugene High School (what is now South Eugene High) until 1960, Class of 1961, before joining the United States Marines.

He was in the United States Marine Corps from 1960 – 1964 as a Radio Telegraph Operator. In October of 1961 his unit was sent to Vietnam and didn't return until November of 1962.  Upon injuring himself falling from a telephone pole, he was medically discharged.

In 1961, in Eugene, Oregon, Max married Faye Jean Ridenour, with whom he shares his son Darrin.

After his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, Max started his "dream job" as a police officer. He served over 20 years, but had to medically retire in 1986 from Medina, WA.

In 1982 Max married Lorna Leigh Green, whom he shares daughters Stephanie and Tamara.

Willard is survived by his son, Darrin (Leona) Johnston; daughters, Stephanie (David) Gutierrez, Tamara (Duncan) Johnston; siblings, Taylor Johnston, Goss (Shannon) Johnston, Carolyn Hooper, Pat Radway, Barry Johnston, Robbie Seabolt, Grady (Veronica) Johnston, Stayce Davis, Graylin (Kimberly) Johnston, Gaylen Johnston, and Guy Johnston; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He will be affectionately remembered by over 10 grand and great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, William J. Johnston.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2023 at 1:00pm at Lake Cavanaugh Community Center, 35022 South Shore Dr., Mt. Vernon, WA 98274.  Share memories of Max and sign the online guest register. The family is asking in lieu of flowers, donations for funeral costs can be made directly to Lemley Chapel.