Craig William Johnston

Craig William Johnston passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026. He was born and raised in Ludington, Michigan. He moved to Texas in 1980. He worked in the gas and oil industry, which allowed him to travel and see a large majority of the United States. He attended Ludington High School, where he was active in band and football. He graduated in 1974 and went on to attend Ferris State College. He had many hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and a love for sports cars. His favorite model was the 1969 Camaro, and he owned several. Craig had a big heart, always helping others, and was a great friend to so many. At an early age, he joined local Boy Scout Troop 203, where he excelled and went on to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout in 1972. Through scouting, he learned a great deal about Native American culture, which fascinated him. He later joined Explorer Post 736, where they tanned hides and made a drum, as well as a large teepee, all by hand. He furthered his interest by becoming a mentor in scouting in several of the cities where he worked and lived, including with the Lakota Indian Dancers Explorer Post in Odessa for several years. He loved Native American dancing and took great pride in perfecting his elaborate clothing, dancing in what is called Old Style. He was very good friends with Karen and Leland McCain. They became lifelong friends through work and their shared love of Native American dancing, meeting up at various powwow performances in Texas and Oklahoma. Craig suffered a stroke in 2018 and became disabled. His strong will carried him through some very tough times. He lived mostly independently and relied periodically on his good friends, Karen and Leland McCain, for help. This became more frequent this past year. His parents, Fred and Alice Johnston, preceded him in death, along with numerous aunts, uncles, and grandparents. Craig is survived by his sister, Sue (Tom Wypa) Johnston; his brother, Tom Johnston; his nephew, Ben (Elizabeth) Johnston; his uncle and aunt, Alvin and Carol Benson; along with numerous cousins and their families. A memorial service will be held on February 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM at American Heritage Funeral Home, followed by burial at American Heritage Cemetery.

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Craig William Johnston

April 18, 1956 - February 8, 2026