Our family sadly announces the passing of Ross, March 10th, 2022, at Ridgeview Lodge at the age of 88, with his 3 girls by his side.
Ross was predeceased by his parents, Art & Ila Howden, 1st. wife, Marie, brother, Roy, 2nd wife, Theresa and his eldest grandson, Aarion Howden.
Ross will be remembered and greatly missed by his daughters, Barbara Forde, Linda (Larry Bissell) and Patricia (James Broad). He will also be missed by his grandchildren, Monique Bolen, Tracy Ord, Brent Jewers, Lyrae Broad, Zan Alcock, Jackie Broad, Jake and Tyler Forde. There are 17 Great-grandchildren and 3 Great-great grandchildren, along with his younger brother Earl Howden, and numerous Nephews, Nieces.
Ross was born in St. Lina, Alberta and was raised on the farm. Following the sale of the farm the family moved to Calgary, Alberta where Ross started school. His dad had started a business, Howden’s Drilling and the family moved every 2 months across many provinces in Canada, so school years were hard, making and leaving friends.
Ross dropped out of school half way thru grade 9 and started working for his Dad’s company. He married Marie Paradis, March 22nd, 1954 and continued to work for Howden’s Drilling until it was sold. Ross and Marie now had been blessed with 2 daughters.
Ross found a truck driving job with Cremona Transport and did daily trips to Calgary, Alberta. They lived on a small farm in Cremona, Alberta and the 3rd gift of a daughter was born. The family up rooted and moved to Kamloops, British Columbia in 1964.
Ross entered into a multi-partnership and purchased Bridge Motors on Tranquille Rd in Kamloops, British Columbia. Ross employed most of his family there, until the business sold.
A new career path, Ross started employment with the School District #73, custodian, bus garage and then to Stores, where he delivered to the schools with his trusty K-9, Lady.
During his retirement he enjoyed spending time at the family cabin at East Barriere Lake and puttering in his yard. Dad loved to build things and tear things a part. Dad also enjoyed daily trips on his scooter to Bailey’s Pub, for his one glass of beer. Most of all, dad was a dedicated Blazer’s fan and he looked forward to every hockey game. Many friends and memories were made.
Ross and Marie celebrated 43 years of marriage, Marie passed away, June 3, 1997. Ross remarried in Oct. 1998 to Theresa, they were married for 23 years until Theresa passed in February 2021.
Special Thanks to Ridgeview Lodge, Orchard 1 in Kamloops, British Columbia, with Ross’s care and support (he was known as their Mickey Rooney).
Cremation service was held on March 21, 2022 with family members, completing his journey together.
A Celebration of Ross Howden’s life will be officiated with Pastor Don Maione and held at the Kamloops Funeral Home, 285 Fortune Drive, Kamloops, British Columbia on April 9th, 2022 at 11:00 am. There will be a reception held after the service. Following will also be a family & friend gathering at the Amenity Building, at 1195 14th Street, Orchard Village Complex. Some Visitor parking or parking on 14th Street. Please bring your stories to share as Dad loved a good visit.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Alzheimer’s Society or Diabetes of Canada in Ross Howden’s name, would be appreciated.
Condolences may be sent to the family from
www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com
250-554-2577