Robert "Bob" Craggs Howard

Robert (Bob) Craggs Howard passed away peacefully at his residence in Houston, Texas, on November 17, 2025, just short of his 97th birthday. His daughter, Heather, was by his side and gave him much comfort before and during his final hours as did the rest of his close family.

Bob was born on January 29th, 1929, in the family home in Corner Brook, Newfoundland to Major Thomas Stanley Howard and Edith Annie Arrowsmith. The youngest of four children and the only boy, he had a happy childhood in Corner Brook enjoying sailing, fishing for salmon, winter sports (hockey & curling), and Cub Scouts.

In 1942, the Howard family moved to Montreal where Bob eventually enrolled at Bishop’s College School in Lennoxville, Quebec. After completing his education, he joined the Bank of Montreal in 1948, and married Joan Kathleen Witherow in 1951. He was then transferred to Calgary where his three daughters, Linda, Judy, and Heather were born. Subsequently, Bob was promoted and transferred to Houston, Texas, as a regional representative for the Bank of Montreal. After several years, Bob joined First City Bancorp as Executive Vice-President and Manager of its international division. Bob ultimately retired and formed Howlands International, a financial consultancy in which he was still active until his late 80s.

Bob loved to travel and with Joan, had the good fortune to visit many places around the world. When at home he enjoyed curling, sailing, socializing with family and friends, and at least once, when he was 75, went skydiving. He was a doting father and grandfather and friend to so many. He loved telling stories and had a wry sense of humor. He exemplified grace, fairness, courtesy, and trust and his presence in our lives will be missed everyday.

Bob is predeceased by his beloved wife, Joan, and his three sisters – Barbara, Suzanne and Valda. Surviving family members are his daughter, Linda and her partner, Dan; daughter Judy, and her husband, John, their daughter Lauren and her wife, Erin; and daughter Heather and her daughter, Zoë as well as his many nieces and nephews near and far.

Thanks to the Belmont Village Senior Living family and Accent Hospice for the compassionate care given to Bob in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, if you desire, please donate to a charity of your choice.