Howard was born on Sept. 15, 1925 to Allen Howard and Lola Maude Bales of Burkburnett, Texas. After graduating from Reagan High School, in Houston, TX, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in WWII. He was honorably discharged in Feb. 1946 and moved to Kernville, CA where he worked for the So. California Edison Co. until he re-enlisted in the Marine Corps in Sept. 1946. He fought in Korea, landing at Inchon and enduring the fierce battle at the Chosin Reservoir. He was honorably discharged in August of 1952 and resumed work for the Edison Co.
While living in Kernville, Howard met Bessie Schanuel and they were married on July 8, 1951. They had 2 children. The family moved to Ventura in 1962 where Howard continued to work for So. Cal. Edison until he retired as a Senior Patrolman on Oct. 1, 1983. After serving in both WWII and Korea, Howard was proud to be a charter and life member of VFW Post 7665 in Lake Isabella, CA. He was a member of the 1st Marine Division Assoc., a Charter member of the Bodfish Chapter of the 1st Marine Division Assoc., The Chosin Few Assoc. and E Clampus Vitus De La Guerra Y Pacheco Chapter 1.5. He was well known by his "white cowboy hat" and he made friends with almost everyone he met. He will be sorely missed.
Howard was preceded in death by his brother William Ronald Bales and his granddaughter Amanda Lynn Bales. He now leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Bessie; son William Robert Bales (wife Robin); daughter Tammy Lynn Bales; grandson Jacob Allen Bales (wife Melissa); granddaughters: Joie Flores (husband Alfred) and Jaime Black (husband Eli); 5 great grandchildren and sister-in-law Roberta Orvis (Princess).
A graveside service, with military honors, will be held at Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 E. Bear Mountain Blvd. Arvin, CA on Oct. 17 at 10:45 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Howard's memory. Anyone of the following would be greatly appreciated: First Marine Division Association, Attn: Scholarship Fund 403 Freeman St. Oceanside, CA 92054; First Marine Division Association-L.A. Chapter, Attn: Horse Marines or Bodfish Sword of Honor, P.O. Box 220552 Newhall, CA 91322-0252 or The ARC of Ventura County, Attn: La Luna Care Home 5103 Walker Street Ventura, CA 93003.
Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Charles Carroll Funeral Home 15 Teloma Dr. Ventura, CA 93003. Phone 805-642-8134.
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