Howard L Latimer

Howard was a treasured son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He was a respected teacher, mentor, and scientist (with a species named for him - Saltugilia latimeri) who taught at CSU Fresno for 35 years.

He was an artisan of bonsai, a native plant advocate, and designer of a beautiful landscape around his home and of a section of the Clovis Botanical Garden.

He was a skilled fisherman, gardener, and a product of the cool, green Pacific Northwest who adapted to the hot, dry Central Valley.

He enjoyed smooth jazz and a nice glass of wine.

He had a legendary dry sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Josie Latimer, and brothers Millard and James.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, with whom he shared 66 years of building a family and a home.

He also leaves behind four children and their spouses: Tom and Janette Latimer, Ellen and David Hansen, Anne and Paul Lake, and Matthew Latimer and Melissa Grush; nine grandchildren, six (soon to be seven) great grandchildren, a host of relatives and friends, and a legion of former students.

These few words cannot hope to capture the complexity, generosity of spirit, and gentleness of a man loved and respected by those lucky enough to have known him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Latimer Family Home, 4534 E Rialto Ave., Fresno CA 93726 .

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to Sierra Foothill Conservancy (sierrafoothill.org) and the GSBF Clark Bonsai Collection in Shinzen Garden (gsbfclarkbonsaicollection.org) or another charity of your choice.