Chris Johnston

Christopher Alan “Chris” Johnston, 66, of Champaign, Illinois, passed away October 15, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Born March 16, 1960, in New York City, Chris was the son of Benjamin and Betty Johnston.

Chris was a lifelong learner and devoted family man. Chris proudly served 32 years in the Army National Guard. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class, retiring in 2016 from the 129th Regiment in Springfield, IL. He worked as a machinist and spent 15 years with Plastipak.

Chris had a passion for teaching Shito-Ryu karate through the Champaign Park District, where he helped students develop confidence and discipline. He loved running, woodworking, music, and sharing his endless supply of jokes and puns. An eternal optimist, Chris was always looking for ways to encourage others and make them smile.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Lori J. Johnston; son, Robert Christopher Johnston; brother, Ross Johnston; and sister, Sybil Inouye. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center's Champaign Chapel, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign, IL 61820. Burial will follow at Grandview Memorial Gardens. There is no dress code; please come as you are.

Please join Chris's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.