Dr. Clarence E. Johnston, born on April 24, 1927, in Farmington, Wash., to Joseph Norval and Ada Brown Johnston, passed away peacefully in his sleep Nov. 18, 2011, at his residence in Coeur d' Alene.

He grew up on a wheat farm until the family moved to Moscow, Idaho. He graduated from Moscow High School and enlisted in the Army. He served honorably in World War II.

After his military service, he enrolled at the University of Idaho, graduating in 1951 with a degree in Chemistry. He then enrolled at Loyola University Dental School in Chicago, Ill., graduating from there in 1955. Clarence funded his college education through planting and harvesting crops in the Palouse area in the summertime.

Dr. Johnston and his wife, Patricia Valadon, were married in August 1955 in Havre, Mont., at St. Jude's Catholic Church. They celebrated their 56th year of marriage this year. From 1955 to 1966, Dr. Johnston practiced dentistry in St. Maries and then moved to Coeur d' Alene in 1966. He truly enjoyed his dental practice for over 45 years. He enjoyed talking to people and learning more about them. He carried a special place in his heart for the older folks he met with.

Clarence is survived by his wife, Patricia, and three sons, Joseph & Christine Johnston, John & Danielle Johnston and David, as well as five grandchildren.

Rosary will take place Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011, at 6 p.m. at Bell Tower Funeral Home, 3398 E. Jenalan Avenue, Post Falls. The Mass will be at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Coeur d'Alene on November 23, 2011, at 11 a.m.

Bell Tower Funeral Home in Post Falls is in care of the arrangements. Please visit Clarence's online memorial page at www.belltowerfuneralhome.com.