HOWARD, Carl Edward

Carl Edward Howard “G-Pa” passed away on March 4, 2016.

Born to Glen and Frieda Howard on September 21, 1938, in Corpus Christi, Texas where he grew up as the youngest of six children.

He proudly served for 22 years in the United States Air Force, including three overseas tours to Japan, Vietnam, and Germany.

Carl was stationed in Canada, Mississippi, Montana, Alaska and eventually at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, WA which became his primary residence for the rest of his life.

He earned degrees from both Eastern Washington University and Spokane Falls Community College, and after his military service worked for the US Post Office and Civil Service.

He was happily married to the love of his life Pamela Jean for 30 years, sharing a relationship filled with love and laughter and centered on family.

Grandpa adored his 16 grandchildren and devoted his time to supporting them at games, recitals and events, forming a very special relationship with each one.

He showed unconditional love and was a role model to his community of family and friends, becoming a surrogate “Grandpa” to many.

Carl adored his five children, Carla Erickson (Scott), John McVicker (Ann), Melisa McVicker, Darcy Stirn (Pat), and is preceded in death by his daughter Toby May.

Carl loved spoiling his canine children Chinook and Canuck.

Grandpa was a card shark, a proud Veteran, a sports enthusiast, a trivia buff and walking encyclopedia, an RV and camping aficionado, and most of all he loved spending time with family.

Carl is preceded in death by his wife Pam and daughter Toby.

His Celebration of Life and faith will be held on Saturday, March 19, at 1:00 pm, at Ball & Dodd Funeral Home, 5100 W. Wellesley, Spokane, WA with a reception following for family and friends.

A private interment will be held for the family on Friday, August 18, at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery.

Donations can be made in his name to the Rypien Foundation (www.rypienfoundation.org), which reflects his love for children.

Heaven gained a charming and loving angel named Carl.