Timothy James Howard

Tim was a private person who never wanted to be a burden to anyone, and many did not know the health challenge he quietly carried. He was thoughtful and kind, often putting others before himself. His faith was important to him in later years and brought him personal comfort and strength.

Tim was a creative person who expressed himself in many ways. He was a master carpenter who took pride in building things that were both beautiful and lasting. He also loved creating music and playing guitar, which brought him personal joy and was one of his favorite ways to spend time.

Tim had a passion for cooking and loved preparing meals that were as beautiful as they were delicious. He often found inspiration watching PBS cooking programs and enjoyed photographing the dishes he created. Sharing food was one of the ways he showed love to those around him.

He also had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening, often starting plants from seed whenever there was enough sunlight to help them grow. He loved animals and enjoyed watching birds and hummingbirds around him, though he humorously made an exception when it came to squirrels. He had a quick wit and was known for his kindness. Those who knew him will remember that he rarely spoke negatively about anyone and treated people with quiet compassion and respect.

Tim is survived by his partner, Ruby Bechtold; his mother, Lee Howard; his sister, Krista Watkins, and her husband, Scott, and their children, Emily, Clay, Abby, and Griffin; his cousins, Tammy Dalley and her husband, Jim, and their children, Matt and Megan; Heidi Oneacre; and Paul Koerfer; along with many other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his aunts, Sue Stevens and Carol Koerfer; his father, Walter Howard; and his beloved dog, Gretchen.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lymphoma Research Foundation. https://lymphoma.org.