John Alfred Howard

John was born June 23, 1935 in Denver Co. He spent his early years in Radburn New Jersey and came to California with his parents and two siblings at the age of 13, where they lived in Westwood. His father founded the School of Social Work at UCLA. After graduating from UNI high school, John attended Santa Monica city college and then graduated from UCLA. Later John went to LaVerne School of Law while working full time for the San Bernardino County Probation Department. After passing the Bar Exam he worked for the San Bernardino County Public Defender's office. He founded the law firm of Howard, Friedman and Gebbie after leaving County employment. "Mr.Howard" enthusiastically defended the rights of thousands of young people in Juvenile Court. A lifelong advocate for Juvenile Justice, he believed "everyone deserves a fair trial."

John is survived by his wife, Janet, of 27 years. He is also survived by Carolyn, his first wife and the mother of his children, His son Greg and grandson William reside in Wales; his daughter Lynn Hegardt, her husband Bryan and grandsons Zachary and Jacob reside in Grand Terrace.

He was also a loving and involved stepfather to Rebecca Bejarano and her fiance` Siavash Behain and to

Robyn Bejarano-Sanchez, husband Frank, granddaughter Izabella and grandson Andrew all of Grand Terrace. John known within his community as a man with a generous and kind heart. He is also survived by Paris, his faithful Schnauzer and constant companion, who was a great comfort to him, especially during the months when his illness required him to be housebound.

In memory of John Howard and in lieu of flowers, please donate to the Grand Terrace Lions Club, care of John Howard at 22421 Barton Rd #403, Grand Terrace, California, 92313. A memorial service for John will be held at Montecito with a date to be announced.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.montecitomemorialparDenver kandmortuary.com for the Howard family.