Dennis R Johnston, 70, passed away peacefully at home June 15 surrounded by family and friends after a brief battle with Esophageal Cancer. Denny was born on December 17, 1954, in Elkhart to George (Ramon) and Betty (Dryden) Johnston. He grew up in Lake Station (East Gary), graduating in 1973 from Edison High School where he was most proud of his baseball and football years and being a member of the 1973 undefeated football team. After graduation, he entered the Ironworker trade working out of Local 395 and Local 1 Chicago. In 1975 he married Debra (Callahan) Johnston and thereafter was a lifelong resident of Portage where they raised 3 daughters. He spent several years coaching and volunteering with Junior Miss Softball. In 1996 he suffered a devastating injury that ended his Ironworking and coaching. A few years later, he made the decision to be baptized and joined the Parish of St Francis Xavier where he became involved with the St. Vincent DePaul Society. Prior to declining health, he enjoyed gardening, golfing, and yearly hunting with his good friend Tom Butler and sons-in-law, his dogs and watching TV especially football and Women's softball.

He is survived by his parents, wife, daughters Jennifer Johnston, Erin Roell, Ryan (Troy) Damron, sister Darla (Roy) Williams, grandchildren Samantha and William Roell and Ryker Damron and faithful buddy Ace!

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Hobart Humane Society, St Francis Xavier Church in Lake Station or the Juvenile Diabetes Association.

He was preceded in death by daughter Angela Marie, dear in-laws John and Dorothy Callahan and precious dogs Katie, Dolly and Squirt.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 6:00 pm at Rees Brady Chapel 3781 Central Ave Lake Station In. A visitation will also be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, from 2:00 until the time of service at Rees Funeral Home, Brady Chapel. For more information call (219) 962-1606 or online condolences can be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com