Reg Johnstone Bashaw AB Obituary, The Bashaw Flash Death, Chuckwagon racing member Passed

 The municipality of Bashaw, Alberta, is grieving the departure of one of its most cherished and vibrant personalities, Reg “The Bashaw Flash” Johnstone, who recently passed away. Reg, a dedicated representative of Bashaw and a highly esteemed member of the Western Professional Chuckwagon Association (WPCA), significantly influenced the realm of chuckwagon racing. His absence has created a gap in both the community and the sport he cherished immensely.

Reg's influence was shaped not only by his racing prowess but also by his engaging personality, rich storytelling, and profound relationships with those who surrounded him. His dear friend, Kathy Anne, recounted a cherished recollection of Reg's early days within the chuckwagon racing scene, remembering how Reg and her father teamed up their first wagon just east of Bashaw. "They borrowed horses from locals and included a few of their own. After getting them hitched, Dad remarked, ‘Reg took the reins with a loud shout, and away they went! It was very western,’” Kathy Anne recalled. “Reg was always full of life, and I have countless wonderful memories of him.”

Reg Johnstone was more than a fierce competitor in chuckwagon racing; he was a vibrant personality who left an impression on everyone he encountered. His dedication to the sport shone through in all his actions, and his capacity to motivate others was as remarkable as his accomplishments on the racetrack. Recognized for his dynamic personality, Reg's zest for life and fervor for chuckwagon racing brought happiness to numerous individuals in Bashaw and beyond.

Wade Butchh Stewart, a good friend and close companion of Reg, shared a touching tribute: “It is with great sorrow we announce the loss of The Bashaw Flash – Reg Johnstone. Dad passed away surrounded by family on Monday night in Lethbridge, Alberta. We invite you to join us in honoring Reg’s life on Saturday, January 24th, at the Bashaw Community Centre at 1 pm. Your attendance would mean a lot to our family. We encourage you to share your stories of adventures with Reg, as they help us all cope. There will be moments of laughter and likely a few tears, followed by a luncheon.”

Reg's impact on the WPCA and the chuckwagon racing community was substantial, and his enthusiasm for the sport brought notoriety and admiration to Bashaw, a town that became closely linked to his legacy. As the “Bashaw Flash,” he was celebrated for his speed, talent, and resolve on the racetrack, but also for his friendly demeanor and sense of humor outside of it.

On behalf of the Town of Bashaw, the community expresses its sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of Reg. Reg Johnstone was more than just a local champion; he was an admired individual whose influence will endure in the memories of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to chuckwagon racing, loyalty to his community, and remarkable personality have created a profound effect that will be remembered forever.

A memorial service honoring Reg’s life will take place at the Bashaw Community Centre on Saturday, January 24th, starting at 1:00 PM. Family, friends, and admirers of Reg are welcome to come together, share memories, and honor the man who infused so much happiness into the world of chuckwagon racing and the lives of those who were lucky enough to know him.

Rest in peace, Reg “The Bashaw Flash” Johnstone. Your impact will last for eternity, and your essence will always remain present among us.