Former Governor General David Johnston and wife Sharon to receive key to the city

By Jenn Pritchard

After spending just over seven years living at Rideau Hall, the Right Honourable David Johnston and his wife Sharon have made Ottawa their home. 

In recognition for their tireless dedication to volunteerism, education and mental health awareness, they'll be given the key to the city of Ottawa on Wednesday night. 

David Johnston explained that he couldn't be happier to share the honour with his wife Sharon. 

“The job we've done in the last 7 years has been a two person job and she has been terrific,” he said. 

The couple were childhood sweethearts and married in 1965. 

They're now living on a farm in Ashton, just outside of Carleton Place. 

Johnston said that they've been spending their time off doing a little golfing on the small course in their backyard, something the former Governor General isn't necessarily a fan of. 

“My wife is golfing and that means that I am golfing as well,” he explained. “I hate doing things that I don't do well. I like athletic things but I don't golf very well, I'm a believer that it's not fair to hit a ball that's not moving.” 

It's that sense of humour that he's bringing to celebrate the award and said it will have a spot on the mantle. 

“It will certainly encourage us to realize that Ottawa has been and will be a wonderful home for us,” he mused. “I don't think it works as a get out of jail key though.”

The Johnstons are parents to five daughters, three of which live in Ottawa. They are also proud grandparents to 14 grandchildren. 

The key to the city ceremony will be held at Ottawa City Hall on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. 

The Right Honourable David Johnston will also be a guest on 1310 NEWS' Hour to Give with Sam Laprade on Saturday April 21st at 7 a.m. 
 

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