James R. Johnston

COLONIE – James "Jimbo" Johnston, 43, passed away Thursday, April 23, 2015 at Albany Memorial Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Jimbo lived a full and happy life thanks to the unwavering love and dedication of his adoring parents, Jim and Jan Johnston.

Jimbo loved to travel, making his way to all 49 continental United States and Cancun. Many of his excursions were traveling with the Cyprus Shriners as an honorary member. His most favorite thing in the world was hanging out on race days with his hero (Dad), cheering Earnhardt around the track. Jimbo never tired of hearing those engines roar.

Jimbo was predeceased by his grandparents, Richard and Louise Barrell and Earl and Louise Johnston.

Jimbo was a joy and blessing to all who knew him. Along with his amazing parents, he will be missed by his sisters Teri Blake and Tara Skalski; wonderful brother-in-laws Frank Blake and Ian Skalski; nieces and nephews, Marissa, Makayla and Frankie Blake; Gianna and Carter Skalski; Godparents Rosemary and Curtis King, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

His family wishes to recognize the dedication and devotion of Pieter Hiemstra, one of Jimbo's longest caregivers and closest friends, as well as the amazing and caring nurses at Albany Memorial CCD. They recognized the treasure he was and treated him as such.

A funeral service will be held on Monday at 9:00 am at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at the funeral home. Interment will be in Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriner's Hospital for Children, C/O Cyprus Shriners, 27 Hannay Lane, Glenmont, NY 12077.