Nicholas G Johnston

Nicholas Gerard Johnston passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on June 27, 2024, in Rochester, at the age of 35 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Nick's early years were filled with the love and support of his parents, Nicholas and Allison Johnston, who instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion that would define his life. He was an admired older brother to Rachel O'Rourke (Billy), and his family grew to include his beloved wife of 10 years, Erica, with whom he built a life filled with joy and adventure, and their two greatest accomplishments, their children, Ethan and Lydia. Nick's extended family was a significant part of his life, including his mother-in-law Jenie Morath (Mark), sister-in-law Chealse Morath (Daniel), his grandmother, many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, as well as several friends who became the family he chose.

Professionally, Nick was a skilled toolmaker at Tessy Plastics, where his precision and craftmanship were highly regarded. His colleagues who highly respected him knew Nick to be a man who could always be counted on. Beyond his professional life, Nick was deeply involved in his community, volunteering his time as a soccer coach, sharing his love of the game, and teaching valuable life lessons to young athletes.

Nick was an avid boater and fisherman, he cherished the serenity of being on the water. Winters found him riding snowmobiles, embracing the thrill of the throttle. A movie enthusiast, Nick could always be counted on for a film recommendation or a spontaneous “name that movie” trivia question. His unwavering sense of adventure often led him and his family on many trips, where he was the ever-reliable road trip back up singer and was known a time or two for his impeccable vocals to Barbie Girl.

Nick and Erica’s love story was a once in a lifetime kind of love. It was evident to anyone that crossed their paths just how in tune they were with one another. With every anniversary spent at the cherished location where they were married. These moments underscored Nicks deep commitment to his wife and the life they built together. There wasn’t a thing the two of them couldn’t tackle together.

Perhaps most touching, was Nick's role as a father. He was never too manly to engage in dress-up or dance parties with Lydia, the little girl who could get him to do anything with just a smile. With Ethan, he shared his love for building, spending hours creating Lego masterpieces that were a testament to both their imaginations and their bond.

Those who knew Nick will remember him as a man who was as handy as he was loving. He could fix anything, from a broken toy to a bad day. His selflessness knew no bounds, and he was often the first to offer help to anyone in need. His presence was a source of strength and comfort to his family and friends, and his absence will be felt deeply by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

As we bid farewell to Nick, we ask anyone touched by his warmth and kindness to join his family in a Celebration of Life at Izzos White Barn Winery from 3pm-6pm on Friday July 5th.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nicholas G Johnston, please visit our floral store.