Sayles Johnston, age 94, of Rolla, ND passed away on Monday, May 3, 2021 at Larimore Good Samaritan Center, Larimore, ND.

Sayles William Johnston was born on February 13, 1927 in Rolla, ND to Sayles D. and Ethel (Patterson) Johnston.  He was raised in Rolla and completed his education there as well.  He enlisted in the United States Navy just before his 18 ^th birthday and was discharged in 1946.  After his time in the service, Sayles returned to Rolla to farm with his father.  After a few years he purchased the farmland from his father and also land in Manitoba, Canada.  Sayles was united in marriage to Evelyn LaFrance on May 16, 1947 in Wolfpoint, MT.  After 63 years of marriage, Evelyn passed on May 11, 2010.  Together they had four children, seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and four great great grandchildren.

In his earlier years, Sayles enjoyed the outdoors hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling.  He was an avid curler for many years and was instrumental in bringing the curling rink to Rolla.  His son, Roger, was blessed to go on an Honor Flight with him which was a wonderful experience.  Sayles and Evelyn traveled extensively in their RV.  Most of the travels led them to spending time in Arizona, where they eventually settled, two weeks turned into six weeks, and then to six months!  They also traveled to Alaska, Mexico, and across the southern part of the country. Sayles was a lifetime member of the Fred C. Wagner American Legion in Rolla, one of the oldest members to date.  He loved his family dearly and enjoyed his time spent with them.  Sayles will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.

Sayles is survived by his children, David (Anna) of Cartwright, Manitoba, Donna Dietz of Ave Marie, FL, Roger (Dianne) of Grand Forks, and Kimberly (Dan) Walerius of Fort Myers, FL; seven grandchildren, Stacy Lembke, Jason Johnston, Shannon Dietz, Justin Dietz, Brigitte Jaszkowiak, Sarah Walerius, and Kyle Walerius; eight great grandchildren; four great great grandchildren; and siblings, Martha Manikowski, Mary Moonjiam, and George Johnston.

Sayles was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn, his parents, Sayles D. and Ethel Johnston, his great grandson, Christopher Hageman, his brother, Harvey Johnston, and his sisters, Irene Ulvik and Ilene Johnston.

Casket Bearers are Jason Johnston, Justin Dietz, Dan Walerius, Mike Johnston, Tom Manikowski, and Jeff Keegan.  Music by John Halone.  Honorary Bearers are all family and friends.  Miltary Honors by the Fred C. Wagner American Legion of Rolla and the Military Funeral Honor Guard of Grand Forks.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, May 10, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND with Pastor Rick Craig officiating. Visitation One Hour prior to services at the funeral home. Burial will follow the funeral service at Rolla City Cemetery, Rolla, ND.  Following the burial service a luncheon will be held at the Rolla Legion Cabin and all are welcome.

Memorials are preferred to the Rolla American Legion, Rolla, ND.

** Please plan to wear a mask inside the funeral home before and during services out of respect and for the protection of others in attendance. **

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.