It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Joshua James Johnstone on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at the age of 32.
Cherished son of Rebecca Lauricella (Roberto) and Michael Gentile (Kim). He was the adored grandson of Maureen Johnstone (late Bill) and Dolores Gentile (late Guido). Joshua was the beloved brother of Elijah, Taylor and step brother of Charlie (Jessica). Proud and cheerful uncle "Joshee" of Ivy and Eli.
Joshua’s family extended far and wide, touching the hearts of his many aunts, uncles, and especially his cousins, including Matthew and Molly, Leah and Alana, Jake and Jude, DJ and Nathan, Matthew, Mitchell and Samantha, Jonathan, Michael and the late Christopher, Chelsea and Haylee, Kira, Vya, Maicie, Alexis, Theron and the late Reiker, Adam, Alexander and Brittany as well as Sean. The Chen, Rossi, Johnstone, Lauricella, Gentile, Miller, Boyer, Summers, Mertes, Flanagan, Gowan, Rody and Rainville families will forever hold him in their hearts. Joshua will forever be missed by his furry brother Levi.
Joshua will always be remembered for his boundless compassion, his infectious and boisterous laugh and his love of giving big, warm hugs. He lived a full and vibrant life, embodying the spirit of someone who squeezed a hundred years into 32. Genuine and kind, Joshua had a fear of missing out and a love for being around others that fueled his passion for life. Known for dressing sharply for any occasion, he brought joy and excitement whenever he entered a room. We can still hear him saying his favourite acknowledgement on any conversation “that’s wild”.
To his mother, he was her Peter Pan.... a free spirit who lived life larger than most could dream. His many friends, too numerous to name, were deeply touched by his warmth, humour and loyalty.
Although our hearts are breaking for the loss of Joshua and the hopes for a long and happy life, we know he now rests peacefully in the loving arms of his papa, aunts, uncles and his cousins who went before him, surrounded by the eternal love he gave so freely in life.
We are grateful to the wonderful nursing and medical staff at both Sault Area Hospital and Sudbury Regional Hospital for the loving care that Josh received.
Friends may visit the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street E. 705-759-2522) on Friday, December 13, 2024 from 12:30 pm until 2:30 pm. Funeral service to follow in the chapel at 3 pm. Rev. Alex Saurianthadathil officiating. Friends and family are also invited to view the service online at www.funeraweb.tv and select Joshua's name. The service can be viewed on the service day and anytime from then on up to 90 days. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Memorial contributions (payable online or by cheque) to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation or to the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre would be appreciated by the family. A celebration of life is planned for the upcoming summer. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Johnstone family.