Patricia “Pat” Joanne (Hynes) Johnston, 85, resident of Mason City, IA and Naples, FL, passed away Thursday, December 8, 2022, at University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.
The family will hold a private service per her final wishes.
Memorials may be given in Pat’s honor to the charity of your choice.
Pat was born November 28, 1937, in Mason City, daughter of Leo P. and Leona Janet (Williams) Hynes. She graduated from Manly High School in 1955, then attended Mason City Junior College. After junior college, she attended the University of Iowa where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy. She met the love of her life, Thomas “Tom” Johnston in a biology class they shared together while attending junior college. They were assigned seats at the same desk, and the rest is history. Pat and Tom were united in marriage June 17, 1961, at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Manly, IA.
Following their marriage, they traveled to San Antonio, TX, where Tom was inducted into the U.S Air Force. They spent a year at Lackland Air Force base, then transferred to McCoy Air Force base in Orlando, FL for another two years before returning to Mason City. Upon their return to Iowa, she practiced as an occupational therapist before she and Tom moved to Rochester, NY. for his residency in orthodontics. While Tom was enrolled at Eastman Dental Center, she supported him working as an occupational therapist at Monroe County Hospital. In 1972 they made their home back in Mason City where Pat eventually worked for and managed the Four Seasons Travel Agency for many years. She loved planning vacations for her clients, as well as many trips she and Tom were able to enjoy together. Although she cherished all of their destinations, their most memorable were Italy and Ireland. They also enjoyed skiing, and had a passion for the Iowa Hawkeyes! She and Tom held season tickets for Iowa football and basketball, attending as many games as possible. Pat was a passionate fan and loved cheering on the Hawkeyes.
Pat was a vital member of various community organizations and could be considered a trailblazer! Her confidence, paired with an ambitious and vibrant personality paved the way for Pat to be the first female elected to the Board of Directors of the Mason City Country Club, as well as one of the few initial women members of the Mason City Rotary Club. She also participated on the Mason City Airport Commission. After many years in Mason City, Pat and Tom eventually began spending their winters enjoying their home in Naples, FL, where she also participated in numerous groups and organizations.
Pat had many friends; her fun personality and contagious laugh was infectious. She was incredibly intelligent in many areas and had no problem controlling a conversation. Pat also loved to play Bridge, playing with many different groups. She had many talents, including being an excellent cook! Everyone looked forward to her hosting Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners, as well as other gatherings with friends and family. Pat’s cooking was something to look forward to, regardless of the occasion. As a loving wife, supportive sister, and lively aunt; Pat is irreplaceable and will be dearly missed.
Pat is survived by her husband of 61 years, Tom; siblings, Richard (Vera) Hynes, Pamela (Greg) Barntsen; many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Pat was preceded in death by her brothers, George and Robert Hynes; and parents Leo and Leona.
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