James E. "Big Jim" Johnston

James E. “Big Jim” Johnston, 62, of Auburn, passed away Tuesday, July 31, 2018, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.

He was born Sept. 22, 1955, in Auburn to Harold J. Johnston Sr. and Joan Marie (Luttman) Johnston. His mother preceded him in death and his father survives in Auburn.

Big Jim married Patti J. Howey on Sept. 9, 1977, in Auburn, and she survives in Auburn.

He worked for Jack’s Automotive in Garrett, City of Auburn Street Department and most recently at NAPA Auto Parts – Classic City Automotive in Auburn.

Big Jim never met a stranger. He enjoyed working on old Chevrolet automobiles, music, eating, spending time outside, Facebook, his K-9 companions, Sophia, Missy and Bo, his beloved cat, Chevy, and the time he spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Also surviving are a son, Jarrod Johnston of Auburn; two grandchildren, Camrin James Johnston and Hannah Necole Maggertt; eight siblings and their spouses, Elizabeth and Tom House of Medford, Oregon, Mary Jane Cain of Auburn, Hettie Shetley (Kelley Akers) of Auburn, Robert Johnston of Auburn, Richard Johnston of Auburn, Harold Johnston Jr. of Auburn, Colleen and Jack Shetley of Auburn and David Johnston of Butler; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother; two sons, Arthur Paul Johnston and Jimmy Johnston; brother, Donald Johnston; and two brothers-in-law, John Cain and Bill Shetley.

A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Friday at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 Center St., Auburn. Cheri Bushee will be officiating.

The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. Friday prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to the family in care of Patti Johnston.