Eight Bells: Bruce Johnston

Bruce Johnston, 83, passed away unexpectedly January 22, 2023 in Tucson, AZ.

Bruce owned an architectural firm in Chicago, IL and had a 50-year sailing career primarily on Lake Michigan owning and sailing Solings, J/24s, Penguins, and Nelson Marek 36. Bruce also spent a fair amount of time crewing and navigating a variety of big boats on Lake Michigan (he loved the Chicago Mac race) and the SORC.

He was also very much involved and served as Commodore of Sheridan Shore Yacht Club in Wilmette, IL.

Bruce was well known in the local sailing community for helping any sailor or boat owner get better and be more competitive. Whether sailing with them to help them learn the sails or grabbing the sanding blocks to make the bottom smoother, he was always helping out.

He was married with two married children, 6 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. He will be missed.