Obituary of Donald Howard

“Don” Howard, 81, died August 11, 2010 at a Bangor hospital surrounded by his family. Don’s wife of 44 years, Grace M. Howard, Had passed away on July 24, 2010 at their home only 18 days prior to his death. Don had attended Searsmont and Belfast schools. He will be remembered as an extremely hard worker since his youth, having cut wood, driven trucks and for many years was a foreman for a local poultry industry. He drove trucks for H.O. Bouchard until the age of 73, saying often that this was the best job he had ever had. Don was born in Searsmont on November 3, 1928, the son of the late Edward Colby Howard and the late Irva Miller Howard. He was predeceased by three brothers; Cedric, Miller C. and Carl E. Howard. Don was also predeceased by his beloved daughter, Sandra F. Wood, two former sons in law, Carl M. Freeman and Robert S. Nickels. Don is survived by Donna G. Howard and her fiance’, Jerry Crabtree of Searsport, Rebekka L. Freeman and her husband John Merrithew of Searsport and Swanville, Susan M. Castro and her husband Manny of Honolulu, Hawaii, son Bruce D. Howard of Swanville, Grace and Don’s daughter Dawn M. Howard of Searsmont, and one sister Lillian A. Sparrow of Gorham. He is also survived by a special grand-daughter, Brandi Leigh Howard and her companion, Andrew Armstrong of Belfast. Don and Grace together had many nieces, nephews and grandchildren that were all very special to them. Don will be remembered by his friends and family for his wonderful sense of humor, his fair-minded and gentle nature, and his unwavering affection for his family. His flower gardens at his much beloved home on “Belmont Connah” were enjoyed by all who visited there. At Don’t request, there will be no funeral services. Cremation arrangements are in care of Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home in Belfast. Those wishing to remember Don in a special way may make gifts in his name to the Belmont Fire Department. Condolences to the family may be mailed to Donna G. Howard, 7 Lake Shore Lane, Searsport, ME 04974, or may be expressed at crab.lj88@207me.com to be shared with the family