Berkeley Willis Johnston passed away on January 9, 2021 with his beloved wife of 59 years, Maria, by his side. His several year journey through Alzheimer’s never took his smile, sense of humor or unbridled love for the people around him. During his 84 years, Berk touched many lives with his enthusiasm and passion for life. He loved being with his friends and family and was quick to invite others along to join in his many passions, whether it be skiing, backpacking, horseback riding, or hiking in his much loved Sierra or Teton mountains. Berkeley graduated from Menlo Atherton High School and Stanford University (Class of ‘59). He met Maria while they were both attending university. They were married in 1961 and moved to San Marino where they raised their three children, Berkeley, Kristen and Erik.
A warm and generous host who never tired of giving back to his community, Berkeley found great satisfaction in volunteering, gladly jumping into action whether it be a work party, pancake breakfast or position of leadership. Berk managed both of his sons’ little league teams and served as president for San Marino Little League. He also served as President of San Marino City Club, President of Oneonta Club and member of Valley Club. He and Maria together chaired San Marino High School Grad Night Committee when their son Erik graduated. In addition, he served as Advancement Chairman for Boy Scout Troop 358, encouraging scouts as they progressed through the ranks. He took great pride in watching both of his sons and grandsons achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. He was a dedicated supporter of the Rotary Club; his membership spanned 50 years between the San Marino and Jackson Hole clubs, and was recognized as Paul Harris fellow. Berk was equally comfortable in a sharp three button suit complete with power tie and pocket square as he was in running shorts, hiking boots or jeans, boots and cowboy hat. He enjoyed great friendships and camaraderie with fellow horse enthusiasts through his involvement with the Saddle and Sirloin Riding Club and Los Vaqueros del Desierto. Berk prioritized celebration. He was often the first to arrive and last to leave a party. Berk savored hosting a great evening out and if you had the privilege of being invited over, your hand would not remain empty, ever. His avid love for the outdoors kept him skiing into his late 70s and he never tired of hiking in the back country. Berkeley began his finance career with a regional firm in Los Angeles before becoming an owner and founder of his own stock brokerage firm. Always the people person, client and friend were synonymous to Berkeley. He lived out his Christian faith in his personal and professional life, always adhering to a high standard of ethics. He was an active participant of the Disciples Class at Lake Avenue Church, Pasadena and First Baptist Church, Jackson Hole. After 25 years of vacationing in Jackson Hole, Berkeley realized his dream of living in that spectacular valley when he and Maria relocated there in 1999 after retiring. Berkeley’s grandchildren cherish their memories of visiting “Noni and Popi” in Wyoming for summers spent floating the creek and picnicking at String Lake as well as white Christmases spent learning to ski and cutting the perfect Christmas tree in the forest. Berkeley is survived by his wife, Maria; his daughter, Kristen Wendorff, her husband, David and their children Nathan, Louisa, Emma and Greta Wendorff; his son, Erik Johnston; his daughter-in-law, Jacquie Johnston and her children and their spouses, Emily and Ben Parker, Berkeley and Grace Johnston, and Julia Johnston; and his three great grandchildren, Kensington and Lynley Parker and Robin Johnston. Berkeley is predeceased by his son Berkeley Johnston.
