Kevin Ray Johnston

Type of Donation:          organs, tissue and corneas

Age and Location:          Age 59 – Seattle, WA

Donation Date:             5/05/2022

Sponsor:                   Honored by Dignity Memorial Providers of Seattle

KEVIN’S STORY

Kevin Ray Johnston was a donor. His corneas were received by two recipients in Texas. He donated his skin, tendons, and tissue. His generous donations will help others now and in the future.

Kevin was very musically talented from an early age. Kevin showed indications early of his musical talent, where he was able to keep the beat and have good rhythm. He played the banjo, harp, piano, alto sax, bass guitar and tuba.

Kevin graduated from West Seattle High School in 1980 and began working as a retail associate at Bartell Drug store. Through the years, he worked at the Seattle blood bank, Northwest Glass Company, Hostess Bakery, and Amazon. His favorite work was as a musician - he was passionate about music. He became a busker with the Seattle Parks and Recreation busker program and was named busker of the week.

Kevin found so much happiness playing and listening to music. He played in numerous Dixieland bands including The Duwamish Dixieland band which his father founded, Kevin played banjo and he later led and managed the group. He played professionally with many bands in the Puget Sound region. The Uptown, Lowdown; the Cutups, the Seattle Banjo Club, Black Swan, and was a welcome stand in at the jazz society. He also played in a few local Seattle Rock groups: Mixxer, Don’t Ask and Spare Parts.

Perhaps, the best jams were in the front room or basement with his dad, or in the backyard with his brothers and sister at family parties, block parties, and impromptu events. He always had his banjo nearby ready to strum and jam at a moment’s notice.

He had a sense of humor, he was a good listener, loyal to his family, helpful, and very humble. His culinary specialty was carrot cake and coleslaw. He appreciated everyone’s opinion whether he agreed with you or not, and he welcomed the discussion.

Kevin is survived by his wife, and 4 of his 5 children, 2 grandchildren, his mother, 3 brothers and sister.