Ardyss Johnston

It is with sadness that the family of Ardyss Christine Johnston (nee Martinson) announce her passing at City Hospital in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan after a long struggle with dementia. 

Ardyss was born in Eston SK to Merle and Florence Martinson. Ardyss is survived by her daughters: Lori (Remmus) Reichert and Erin (Kevin) Heppner; grandchildren: Katrina and Amanda Reichert and Jacob, Evelyn and Rachel Heppner and; siblings: Duane Martinson (Irene Fox), Arden (Barb) Martinson; Enid Dice and Mavis Beck; sister-in-law’s: Donna Allan (Clarence Smith) and Jan Kuzuchar; brother-in-law’s: Bob (Charlotte) Johnston, and Ronald (Marilyn) Johnston; and many nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by: her loving husband of 56 years, Ken; her parents; her in-laws: Reginald and Evelyn Johnston; sister-in-law’s: Alice Martinson and Patricia Johnston; and brother-in-law’s: David Dice, Grant Beck, Clayton Allan and Keith Johnston.

Ardyss was raised on a farm near Bickleigh SK. She took schooling in Bickleigh, Eston and Caronport SK. She moved into Saskatoon to attend Saskatoon Business College and that is when she met her future husband Ken on a blind date in 1965. She worked as a secretary at the University of Saskatchewan in the Extension Division before taking time off of secretarial work to be at home raising their daughters. Once the girls were in their teenage years she went back to work at the University in the College of Commerce and finished her career at the Faculty Association. Ardyss also worked in several positions in civic and provincial elections putting her organization skills to work. She was a talented seamstress making clothes for herself and her daughters. She enjoyed petit point and baking. She spent time at her daughters’ school as a volunteer to help students with reading and math, and working in the library. 

Ardyss was quiet but had a quick wit which would surprise you. She and Ken enjoyed when their house was filled with family and friends. They loved having their grandkids nearby and were kept busy babysitting, chauffeuring, and attending their events and activities. They have many interesting stories of their travels on car tours with the Saskatoon Antique Car Club of which they were members for over 50 years. When Ken volunteered for a committee Ardyss was right there with him helping, whether it was organizing a car tour or sewing heart pillows. As a long-time attendee of Mayfair United Church, she spent many years teaching Sunday School and volunteering in various capacities.

The funeral service will be held at Mayfair United Church in Saskatoon, SK at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 21, 2024.

Those who are unable to attend Ardyss' service may view the livestream service by clicking the following link: https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/95821

Donations in Ardyss’s memory can be made to the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency or Ronald McDonald House Charities Saskatchewan.

Martens Warman Funeral Home is honoured to be entrusted with Ardyss’ care.