Robert Michael Johnston, 61, returned to his heavenly home on December 17, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Encinitas, CA. Born on January 16, 1963, in Ogden, Utah, to Rolf Bernhardt Lundh and Janet Budge Johnston, Rob was the eldest of six siblings: Sue, Russ, Patricia, Katie, and Chris. He lived a full and vibrant life defined by faith, family, and adventure.
Rob graduated from Bingham High School in 1981 and devoted two years to serving a mission in Louisiana for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Upon his return, he attended the University of Utah, where he began laying the foundation for his career and future family.
In 1989, Rob married his first wife, Holly Pugmire. The couple moved to Santa Clara, California, where Rob pursued a successful career in hospitality. Together, they welcomed their children: Brady (1994), Joshua (1995), Brooke (1998), and Jacob (2000). His career took the family to Redlands, California, and later to Sammamish, Washington.
In 2012, Rob married Sheryl Arena (Stewart), a union that brought him renewed happiness and partnership. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure. Rob brought joy and steadfast devotion to their marriage. The couple relocated to Midway, Utah, in 2015, cherishing the opportunity to be near family and watch their children complete their schooling. In 2019, Rob and Sheryl made their home in Carlsbad, California, where they enjoyed life near the beach.
Throughout his career, Rob received numerous awards and recognition for his dedication and achievements. However, the most meaningful part of his life was being a dad. He took immense pride in his children and considered fatherhood his greatest accomplishment and joy.
Rob’s zest for life extended to the many hobbies he shared with family. He was an avid motorcyclist, camper, hiker, surfer, skier, and snowboarder (his favorite hobby by far). He cherished weekends spent at the beach and never missed an opportunity to connect with nature. Crescent Beach in Laguna Beach, CA held a special place in his heart. A lifelong learner and animal lover, Rob had a curious spirit and a kind heart that left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He was passionate about nutrition, wellness, and healthy living, and he loved sharing this knowledge with his family.
Rob is survived by his wife, Sheryl; his children, Brady, Joshua, Brooke, and Jacob; his mother, Janet Robb; and his siblings, Sue, Russ, Patricia, Katie, and Chris. He will also be remembered by countless friends and extended family members who will forever hold him in their hearts.
A celebration of Rob’s life will be held at Le Jardin (Larkin Sunset Gardens) in Sandy, Utah. In honor of Rob’s commitment to helping others in need, the family encourages all who knew him to perform an act of kindness for someone in their path. Rob was dedicated to giving his time and resources to lift those around him, a legacy that will continue to inspire.
If you are unable to attend and would like to stream the service, please use this link below.
Guestbook/Condolences
My sincere condolences to Sheryl and your family on Rob's passing. I met Rob when he became the Executive Director at our living facility on Lake San Marcos. I was very involved in looking out for our residents' rights and Rob was truly dedicated to improving their quality of life at every opportunity. We subsequently moved to another facility and I remained in contact with Rob. We became friends on a personal level and I thoroughly enjoyed our subsequent few visits together. I was so saddened to learn of Rob's passing.