Ernest Johnston

Ernest ‘Albert’ Johnston Jr., 87, of Baldwin City, Kansas passed away Monday, January 12, 2026 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Lawrence, Kansas. Albert was born July 27, 1938 in Bell Memorial Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas, the son of Ernest ‘Ernie’ Albert Johnston and Ethel Irene (Murphy) Johnston. They lived in the private living quarters behind their grocery store located on Rainbow Boulevard in Kansas City, Kansas.

In 1945, the family moved to a farm near Baldwin City, Kansas. Albert attended Baldwin Schools graduating as Salutatorian of the Class of 1956. He attended the University of Kansas graduating in 1960 with a Bachelor's of Science in Engineering Physics with honors.

Also in 1960, Albert married Marjorie Kathleen ‘Kathy’ Cook. They grew up as neighbors, playmates as children and dated later in High School.

Albert attended the University of Kansas Graduate School where he earned a Master's Degree in Physics. In 1967, Albert and Kathy had a son, Michael. Albert was hired as an Assistant Professor of Physics at Missouri Western State College, teaching there for thirty-two years. After his retirement, Albert spent the next twenty years raising cattle on the family farm.

Mr. Johnston was preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Ethel Johnston.

Surviving family includes his wife, Kathy Johnston of the home; and a son, Michael Johnston and wife, Heidi of Baldwin City, Kansas; and two grandchildren, Easton Albert Johnston and Eden Lynn Johnston of Baldwin City, Kansas.

A private family burial will be held at Oakwood Cemetery, Baldwin City, Kansas. Condolences may be sent to the family through www.lamb-roberts.com.