Dolores (Michelini) Johnston

Dolores (Michelini) Johnston, age 97 of Rushtown Road, Danville passed away on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 in Danville.

Born in New York City on May 14, 1927, she was a daughter of the late Leon and Eleanor (Marchetti) Michelini. She was a graduate of Hunter High School in New York City.

After high school, Dolores graduated from Hunter College in New York City, trained as a professional singer. Following college, Dolores enlisted in the U. S. O., performing in Europe, South America and Canada at American military bases. Upon returning from her tours, she sang professionally in musicals in New York City and upstate New York. Dolores met Robert (Bob) Johnston at Papermill Playhouse in New Jersey. After performing together for several years, they were married in 1956.

Dolores and Bob moved to Danville in 1959 when Bob gained employment at Merck in Riverside. Dolores and Bob raised five sons. She fostered her faith, values, and principles upon her children and always had an explanation for how the real world worked.

Once her children were old enough, Dolores joined Weight Watchers as a member in the late 1960’s, and eventually worked for the Camp Hill franchise of Weight Watchers for nearly 40 years in a variety of roles.

Dolores was a member of Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Elysburg.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert N. Johnston, on Dec. 28,2020 and by her son Mark S. Johnston in 1998.

 Dolores is survived by four sons: David, Robert, Chris and his wife Betty, Edward and his wife Karin; a daughter- in law Jeanne; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren, and a brother Leon Micheline and his wife Nann.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in her name to Emmanuel Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, 11 Schoolhouse Rd., Danville, PA 17821.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Roat-Kriner Funeral Home, 1133 Bloom Rd., Danville.