Ryan Michael Johnston, age 43, passed away at home on Friday, July 7th, 2023 after never giving up and fighting hard against cancer. Ryan was born on June 5, 1980, in Salem, OR to Richard "Mike" and Patricia Johnston. He earned his degree in Computer Information Systems from Chemeketa Community College, with a focus on Network Management & Security Systems. Ryan was an Advanced Services Assistant Manager at Open Dental Software company, where he worked for 10 years.

He met his forever love, Kelly in the fall of 1995, and Ryan and Kelly were surrounded by all of their loved ones as they exchanged vows on August 13, 2005. The love between them that day was, and will forever remain, undeniable. In 2010, Ryan began one of his favorite roles in life, fatherhood, when River was born. Ryan shared his love of music and tech with River and the two could be found gaming, or playing and listening to music together.

Ryan was passionate about many things throughout his life, but music was his first love. Music has been a part of Ryan's life since he was young listening to The Beatles with his mom, learning how to play several instruments, and developing his love of playing guitar, writing, and creating his original music. He was a talented singer, songwriter, and musician who brought passion and creativity to his music and performances. He joined The Dimes in 2003 as their bassist, where he enjoyed touring and performing until 2012, and over the next decade would continue to record music with the band. He often could be found playing his guitar at jam nights and local music events. He also volunteered his time through the years at AMP-an Artist Mentorship Program- mentoring youth through music. Over the last 18 months, Ryan reconnected with The Dimes to record what will be their last album together and work on Ryan’s own music.

Ryan was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, manager, bandmate, and friend to so many. He impacted others with his kindness, thoughtfulness, and making everyone he encountered feel seen and heard. This made him a great leader in his career and forever loved in his music communities. His willingness to help others will ripple on when each of you spreads kindness by helping someone you see in need in honor of Ryan and the spirit and essence of who he was. From his post on FaceBook dated June 5th, 2020 “Be compassionate enough to listen, Be understanding enough to hear, and Be open enough to change.”

Ryan is survived by his wife Kelly, son River, mother Patti Johnston, his sisters Alice (Will) Kendall, and Laura (Lamont) Klepper, and several nieces and a nephew that lovingly called him “Uncle Bub”. He is preceded in death by his father Mike Johnston. A celebration of Ryan’s life will be held Saturday, October 7, 2023, at the Ike Box Ballroom from 7-9 pm in Salem, Oregon. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to an educational fund for River Johnston via Kelly Johnston Venmo. 

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