Howard Richard Foster

Howard Richard Foster, long-time resident of Spokane, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2014 at the Spokane Veterans Home. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Marian E Foster, and two children, Rachel Denk and Kevin Foster, both of Spokane. Further descendants include grandchildren Sheila Leslie of Spokane and James White of Moorpark CA, and great-grandchildren Catherine and Ryan Leslie of Spokane; and James, Jeremy and Nicholas White of Moorpark CA.

Howard Foster was born on July 9, 1922 in Wenatchee WA, the first-born of nine children to parents Lydia (Gunn) Foster and Howard Robert Foster. Margaret Johnson (Portland OR), June Hill and Clarence Foster (both in Wenatchee) survive him.

Raised in Peshastin, Howard was a student at Central Washington State College in Ellensburg when he enlisted in the Army Air Force. From April 1944 to December 1945, he served as a P-51 Fighter Pilot with the 31st Fighter Group of the 308th Fighter Squadron. Foster continued his military service in the Air Force Reserves and was honorably discharged in December 1957 with the rank of Captain.

Foster received his bachelor’s degree in 1948 and his Masters in Education followed. He fulfilled his thirty year teaching career in the state of Washington, of which twenty-five years were at Jefferson Elementary School in Spokane.

Over the years Howard was recognized as a passionate educator. He coached youth sports, was well known as a Spokane pioneer in stamp collecting, dedicated musician and bridge player. He was committed to the Southside community where he was active in Project Joy, Ham on Regal, the Southside Senior Center as well as the Southeast neighborhood.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home, 1306 N. Monroe St., Spokane, WA.