Joel Patrick Johnston, Indianapolis (Hendricks County), 45, passed away October, 15, 2015. Joel is survived by his wife of 23 years, Loran; children Dylan, Abby, Gavin and Amelia; parents Harold and MaryAnn Johnston; siblings Jimmy Johnston and Jill Ward.
During 2015, Joel fought cancer valiantly with grace, strength, courage, love and faith. Cancer, however, cannot and will not define Joel. He believed in living life to the fullest. A sentiment shared by childhood friends from Horseheads, NY and Brockway, PA. A sentiment that followed him into college at Mercyhurst College, (Erie, PA) as well as his adult life.
Joel had many passions. His wife and children being first and foremost. Joel represented the true meaning of a loving husband and father. Joel proudly served as a Fire Fighter with the City of Indianapolis for 16 years. He thrived in this role due to his strength, honor and desire to serve. The IFD family in turn served Joel to support him wholeheartedly this past year. IronMan triathlons with their physical and mental challenges held a role in Joel's life for 13 years. Joel completed his first race in 2002 with his 10th and final race coming just 2 months before cancer testing started. And finally, his St. Louis Rams football team allowed his to share many a Sunday surrounded by his family from a very early age to current cheering and maybe crying during a few games.
Joel lived his life caring for others. We should remember this fact and use it as out mantra for our lives. More information about Joel can be found at www.ironjoel.com

Below please find the arrangements that have been set to honor Joel and celebrate his strength, courage and passion for life.

Visitation: Monday, October 19, 2015, 4-7 PM, St. Malachy Catholic Church, 9833 E County Line Road 750 N, Brownsburg, IN

Funeral: Tuesday October 20, 2015, 10 AM, St. Malachy Catholic Church, 9833 E County Line Road, Brownsburg, IN

Celebration: Brownsburg Fire Hall, October 20, 2 PM (family to arrive after private burial service) 470 N. Northfield Drive, Brownsburg, IN.

In lieu of flowers please consider contributing to either of the following causes that were important to Joel.
Johnston Children College Fund. Education is extremely important to Joel. Donations can be sent to The Joel Johnston Fund, c/o The FireFighters Credit Union, 501 N New Jersey St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 to support his desire for all four children to attend college.

The St. Vincent Cancer Center. Joel valued all of the support provided by St. Vincent resources. Funds will be used to help other fighters battling this terrible disease. https://give.stvincent.org