I just wanted to write a quick note to let you all know how much it means to us that you are sharing these stories. We have found great comfort in hearing from all of you and look forward to more.
I have so many stories I would like to share and will be posting them soon, but I just want to say that this has really meant so much to us.
Thank you so much for your kind words, thoughts and prayers.
Father, Husband, Brother, Friend, Doctor, Engineer, Pilot, Teacher, Veteran, 1946 - 2009
James William Howell, 1946 - 2009, Rest in Peace
UPDATE (04/25/10): The stories are now in reverse chronological order (newest first) and are paginated. Jump to the latest story.
UPDATE (04/04/09): Here are the two slideshows we played at the funeral.
Jim's Mistress:
Jim's Mistress on Vimeo.
James W. Howell, 1946 - 2009, Rest in Peace:
James W. Howell, 1946 - 2009, RIP on Vimeo.
UPDATE (03/26/09): I want to start off by extending my family's gratitude to all of you for sharing your memories of my Dad, James W. Howell. We treasure every one of them. I'd also like to thank all of you who have come forward to support us during this time and all those of you who were able to celebrate his life during the service on Saturday. Thank you.
I'd also like to thank anyone who ever crossed paths with my Dad during his life, as every little moment of time adds up to the amazing life he lived, and all the love that he shared with the world. I think if he were here today, he would be overwhelmed at all the love and friendship he had in the world, because that's just the kind of man he was.
I plan to leave this site up indefinitely as a tribute to him, so feel free to continue sharing your stories. Over time I will add to the site, including photos and video, so feel free to stop back by from time to time. I'm always open to any suggestions and comments (LJHowell@gmail.com).
James William Howell passed away this morning at 7:25am (03/15/09) as a result of respiratory failure. He had been having some health problems recently, but this was completely unexpected.
It's hard to believe that we won't ever be able to speak to him again, or laugh with him or tell him how much we love him. I know that I will miss him dearly for the rest of my life.
However, there is no doubt he led a wonderful life. He did so many amazing things and touched many people's lives along the way. This website is a tribute to him and a way for those who knew him to celebrate his life, and to give some insight into what a great man he was.
Our family would love to hear some of your thoughts, your stories, the laughs you shared, or any favorite memory that comes to mind. Just enter your story in the form below (here) and click submit. It should show up directly below the form (here). You can also email me if that is easier for you (LJHowell@gmail.com). Please share photos if you have them - just email those to me and I will post them.
We are planning to have a funeral for him in Lander, Wyoming this coming Saturday (03/21/09). Following that, our family will spread his ashes in the Bighorn Mountains.
UPDATE (3/17/09) - Funeral & Reception Information:
Hudson's Funeral Home Chapel of Mount Hope
680 Mount Hope Drive, Lander, WY 82520 (Map) (Lander Hotels)
Saturday, 03/21/09, at 11am.
Following the funeral we plan to have a reception at Hunt Field Airport (Lander Airport) (Map). We also hope to have our Dad's RV-4 (photo) there.
We will also offer some time for anyone who would like to say a few words in his honor.
UPDATE #2 (3/17/09) - Cards:
If you would like to send a card, please use my parents home address:
Jim Howell & Maureen Donohoue
837 E. 17th Ave, Apt. 3G
Denver, CO 80218
Thank you to everyone who has reached out to us and to all of you who have shared your memories. It means a lot to everyone in our family.
Feel free to contact me at LJHowell@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Lucas Howell
Please Share Your Story
Story submission form removed due to ever persistent spammers (bastards)!
Please email me any stories and I will happily post them here.
Thanks!
Lucas
Media
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Lander Journal Newspaper Article from July 30th, 1984.
(May need to zoom in on it for easy viewing). -
En Route to Spacecamp with Lucas Rogers and Lucas Howell (Summer, 1989?)
(Thanks Luke!).
March 17, 2009
Piper
March 17, 2009
Piper
I just wanted to write a quick note to let you all know how much it means to us that you are sharing these stories. We have found great comfort in hearing from all of you and look forward to more.
I have so many stories I would like to share and will be posting them soon, but I just want to say that this has really meant so much to us.
Thank you so much for your kind words, thoughts and prayers.
I have so many stories I would like to share and will be posting them soon, but I just want to say that this has really meant so much to us.
Thank you so much for your kind words, thoughts and prayers.
March 17, 2009
Riley Coffey
Lucas is Howell is the closest friend I have ever had, and perhaps will ever have. I have known the Howells for virtually my entire life. My family and I were very fortunate to have all of the Howells and Rogers as neighbors for the better part of fifteen years.
Because of this, I was also lucky enough to have spent a good deal of time around Jim.
It's really impossible to put your finger on what was most enjoyable about sharing his company. He had a terrific laugh, and when you heard it you almost felt special--because making such an intelligent man chuckle meant your joke must have been alright.
I have witnessed many people interact with their fathers, but none had the same kind of mutual respect and appreciation for one another as Jim and Lucas, and even when we were little kids it was very plain to see.
I have so many worthwhile stories about Dr. Howell because I practically grew up at their house on Squaw Creek. There was the airplane ride he gave me in his recently finished Piper Cub, the time he sat with Lucas and I for the better part of three hours and told us his thoughts on Vietnam--the list could go on and on.
That said, I suppose my best story about being around Jim would have to be the time I saw him last. I was working in Denver, and knew that Jim and Maureen had recently moved there as well, but had yet to pay them a visit. I saw him on the street and it took him some time for him to recognize me, but when he did he was all smiles.
That's a terrific way to remember him.
Lucas, my oldest friend, I wish more than anything that I could be there for you and your family. Words do not carry enough sentiment and power to do your Dad justice, so I hope you'll just take my word that you're in my thoughts constantly. He was really a great person--an amazing man--and I was truly glad to know him.
All my best,
RPC
Because of this, I was also lucky enough to have spent a good deal of time around Jim.
It's really impossible to put your finger on what was most enjoyable about sharing his company. He had a terrific laugh, and when you heard it you almost felt special--because making such an intelligent man chuckle meant your joke must have been alright.
I have witnessed many people interact with their fathers, but none had the same kind of mutual respect and appreciation for one another as Jim and Lucas, and even when we were little kids it was very plain to see.
I have so many worthwhile stories about Dr. Howell because I practically grew up at their house on Squaw Creek. There was the airplane ride he gave me in his recently finished Piper Cub, the time he sat with Lucas and I for the better part of three hours and told us his thoughts on Vietnam--the list could go on and on.
That said, I suppose my best story about being around Jim would have to be the time I saw him last. I was working in Denver, and knew that Jim and Maureen had recently moved there as well, but had yet to pay them a visit. I saw him on the street and it took him some time for him to recognize me, but when he did he was all smiles.
That's a terrific way to remember him.
Lucas, my oldest friend, I wish more than anything that I could be there for you and your family. Words do not carry enough sentiment and power to do your Dad justice, so I hope you'll just take my word that you're in my thoughts constantly. He was really a great person--an amazing man--and I was truly glad to know him.
All my best,
RPC
March 17, 2009
Piper
I just wanted to write a quick note to let you all know how much it means to us that you are sharing these stories. We have found great comfort in hearing from all of you and look forward to more.
I have so many stories I would like to share and will be posting them soon, but I just want to say that this has really meant so much to us.
Thank you so much for your kind words, thoughts and prayers.
I have so many stories I would like to share and will be posting them soon, but I just want to say that this has really meant so much to us.
Thank you so much for your kind words, thoughts and prayers.
March 17, 2009
Jennie Hutchinson
We are so saddened to hear of your loss. Jim's ability to care, listen, diagnose and all with a wonderful sense of humor made him an exceptional doctor and man. We knew we very fortunate to have Jim as our family doctor in such a small town. I still compare every doctor to Dr. Howell, and honestly, none come close.
I remember the time I had picked Piper up for John's 7th birthday party in 1991 and we had a small car accident. I remember thinking "Dad's a doctor, Mom's an attorney, this could be bad". Jim handled everything once again with his calm, caring attitude.
Our thoughts are with all of your family. Even in your time of loss, take joy that your dad truly helped and changed so many peoples lives. He will not be forgotten.
Jennie Hutchinson
I remember the time I had picked Piper up for John's 7th birthday party in 1991 and we had a small car accident. I remember thinking "Dad's a doctor, Mom's an attorney, this could be bad". Jim handled everything once again with his calm, caring attitude.
Our thoughts are with all of your family. Even in your time of loss, take joy that your dad truly helped and changed so many peoples lives. He will not be forgotten.
Jennie Hutchinson
March 17, 2009
John Backs
So sorry to hear the news. Seems like all the really good people leave us too early. I knew Jim through my daughter Desirae. Piper and Des were best friends for years. In fact when I was going through my divorce Jim and Piper were gracious enough to take Des in because we had to leave our house for a period of time. I am to this day grateful for all they did.
I also remember Jim taking Des up in his plane many times. I was always scared to death about it, but he was always quite reassuring. Not only was he a great doctor, but a great person who I am sure made everyone he came in contact with feel welcome. All the years I lived in Lander I never heard a single person say a single negative word about him. I only heard good things about him.
May you forever soar with the eagles.
John Backs
I also remember Jim taking Des up in his plane many times. I was always scared to death about it, but he was always quite reassuring. Not only was he a great doctor, but a great person who I am sure made everyone he came in contact with feel welcome. All the years I lived in Lander I never heard a single person say a single negative word about him. I only heard good things about him.
May you forever soar with the eagles.
John Backs
March 17, 2009
Desirae Backs-Ware
I have so many fond memories of Jim. He was a great man who I looked up to and admired. I have always thought of the Howell's as family and will never forget the impact Jim had on my life. I loved spending time at the Howell residence or at the medical clinic in Jim’s office with Piper as we waited for yet another ride. I went through some extremely hard times growing up and without Jim, Piper, and the rest of the family my world today could be a different story. They never judged me, but rather opened their arms, home, and even the plane!
I loved flying with Jim and remember reading the warning on the back of his seat every time I got in. It said something along the lines of “WARNING: This aircraft was built by an individual…” and I would think to myself, “Wow, he is amazing—he is a doctor, a pilot, and he built this himself.” Then off we went. Up and away and over the reservoir. I think the first trick was a roll. What a view! Next was a stall. Jim explained to me how it would work. He would cut the engine down and force the plane to climb until it cut out. It was an amazing feeling—we were soaring downward like an eagle, peaceful and calm. This is how I picture Jim living on today. Flying above, smiling down on us, with the best possible view. I will remember Jim as mentor, a teacher, a father-figure, and a doctor. He is undoubtedly the most intelligent person I have ever met.
I love you and miss you all. My thoughts are with you.
I loved flying with Jim and remember reading the warning on the back of his seat every time I got in. It said something along the lines of “WARNING: This aircraft was built by an individual…” and I would think to myself, “Wow, he is amazing—he is a doctor, a pilot, and he built this himself.” Then off we went. Up and away and over the reservoir. I think the first trick was a roll. What a view! Next was a stall. Jim explained to me how it would work. He would cut the engine down and force the plane to climb until it cut out. It was an amazing feeling—we were soaring downward like an eagle, peaceful and calm. This is how I picture Jim living on today. Flying above, smiling down on us, with the best possible view. I will remember Jim as mentor, a teacher, a father-figure, and a doctor. He is undoubtedly the most intelligent person I have ever met.
I love you and miss you all. My thoughts are with you.
March 17, 2009
Cyndi Hargis
Jim saved my son's life at birth. The first thing he said to me was "This little boy must have something very important he is supposed to do in life". He was our doctor until he retired and I will never forget what a wise, funny, and wonderful man he was. We loved him and I still miss him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and close friends.
March 17, 2009
Kathy Dunham
Dear Howell and Rogers Families,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Dr. Howell was an amazing, caring human being and an exceptional physician. Anyone who crossed paths with Dr. Howell was blessed in some way.
My sincere and deepest condolences to you.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Dr. Howell was an amazing, caring human being and an exceptional physician. Anyone who crossed paths with Dr. Howell was blessed in some way.
My sincere and deepest condolences to you.
March 17, 2009
Terri Watson
I met Jim when I hit his daughter who was riding her bike on Main Street in Lander. Piper was uninjured, but the bike was a little crunched, and I was totally freaked out. I had someone stay with her, and I headed to Taco Bell, where she told me her parents were ---- and when I babbled at Jim about the accident, he was as calm as a cucumber, supportive, and very low key. He knew what was important, and what was not. A few days later, when I was getting back in touch with him about repairing the bike, in his inimitable way, he said, "Did you know my wife is a plaintiff's attorney? Isn't that hysterical?" --- and when his laugher was met with silence, finished, "you haven't regained your sense of humor about this whole thing, have you?" We then launched into a wonderful conversation that was the start of a wonderful friendship about tragedy averted, what to stress about and what not to stress about, how all things in life happen for a reason, and how the events leading to our meeting brought into my life a man who became my doctor, my flight surgeon, a man who gave me great advice about flying, about building airplanes, and about handling the curveballs that life could throw at you.
Jim's humor, dry and ironic, was one of the things I always enjoyed most about him. I remember him telling me about the time it took for him to build his little RV airplane in the basement --- and how, when it was done, he selected a tail number that ended in the letters "JM". I asked him why not "JH", his initials. He informed me that Maureen referred to the plane as "Jim's Mistress", and thus the choice. He loved finding the humor in all things in life.
By the same token, when I went to him as a doctor, with something that was scary to me, and wanting to know what it was, he was not only reassuring, he chose a course of action designed to "eliminate the scary things first, and then focus on dealing with the benign discomfort of what is probably is." It was a perfect approach.
When he moved to Colorado, I was happy for him, but I missed him, and still do. He was the guy that gave me the best advice about my flying business, about career choices, and even gave me the balanced perspective when I had a flying mishap that resulted in banging up a mutual friend's airplane. You could count on Jim for level-headed, grounded in reality advice, as well as the knowledge that he always believed in you and liked you, no matter what happened.
I know he will be missed by all who knew him --- and I know I will continue to think of him each and every time I see a little RV fly by --- and I know that now he is in a place where avgas is free, gravity is no longer a limit, and all landings are greasers. Blue skies, Jim
Terri
Jim's humor, dry and ironic, was one of the things I always enjoyed most about him. I remember him telling me about the time it took for him to build his little RV airplane in the basement --- and how, when it was done, he selected a tail number that ended in the letters "JM". I asked him why not "JH", his initials. He informed me that Maureen referred to the plane as "Jim's Mistress", and thus the choice. He loved finding the humor in all things in life.
By the same token, when I went to him as a doctor, with something that was scary to me, and wanting to know what it was, he was not only reassuring, he chose a course of action designed to "eliminate the scary things first, and then focus on dealing with the benign discomfort of what is probably is." It was a perfect approach.
When he moved to Colorado, I was happy for him, but I missed him, and still do. He was the guy that gave me the best advice about my flying business, about career choices, and even gave me the balanced perspective when I had a flying mishap that resulted in banging up a mutual friend's airplane. You could count on Jim for level-headed, grounded in reality advice, as well as the knowledge that he always believed in you and liked you, no matter what happened.
I know he will be missed by all who knew him --- and I know I will continue to think of him each and every time I see a little RV fly by --- and I know that now he is in a place where avgas is free, gravity is no longer a limit, and all landings are greasers. Blue skies, Jim
Terri
March 17, 2009
Ian Shaw
I am so sorry to hear this news. I never knew Jim well, but was around him many times when pal'n around with my good friend, Judd. We always admired Jim's ability to succeed at anything he tried. I remember when the combined family first moved out on Squaw Creek Road and Jim started building his airplane in the barn. As Judd and I focused on painting one of Judd's freestyle bikes, we would periodically look over the various pieces and parts of Jim's airplane and wonder how he could be learning avionics and as well as practicing medicine. It seemed to us like he could do it all!
Judd, Luke, Gabe, Gwen, Piper, Lucas and Maureen, please know that I'm thinking of each of you and wishing you the very best in these hard times. If there is anything I can do, PLEASE do not hesitate to contact me. Maureen, I am very close to Denver and would be more than happy to help with anything you need.
Ian, Cheyenne, Wyoming
Judd, Luke, Gabe, Gwen, Piper, Lucas and Maureen, please know that I'm thinking of each of you and wishing you the very best in these hard times. If there is anything I can do, PLEASE do not hesitate to contact me. Maureen, I am very close to Denver and would be more than happy to help with anything you need.
Ian, Cheyenne, Wyoming
March 17, 2009
Pat
He was my doctor. I loved him so much. When he retired I cried for days as I knew I would never have another doctor like him.
March 17, 2009
Becky Elliott
I worked with Dr. Howell at the Lander Medical Clinic, and he was also mine and my families physician for a few years. He was such a smart man, and yet could be so much fun. I will always remember when he (and he never before displayed a temper) took his dictating machine outside and drove over it and over with his car, because it wouldn't work and hadn't worked for days. We all laughed at that, and at the annual Christmas party they presented him with those pieces of the machine on a piece of plywood, so we all got to laugh about it again. He worked directly with and for his patients, and he had a good relationship with Dr. thomason whom I worked for. He was kind and generous and always had a willing shoulder.I will miss him a great deal.
Becky Elliott
Becky Elliott
March 17, 2009
Dave & Carol King
Our sympathies go to the Howell family. We are so sorry to hear of Jim passing away. Our daughter Buddy (aka Brittany) and Piper grew up together, being pals since elementary school. Piper, please know we are thinking of you. We will not be able to attend the funeral on Saturday, but, Piper, whenever you get back to Lander, contact us.
March 17, 2009
Sally Webster
My dear friend, Jean Serdiuk, was a patient of Dr. Howell. Jean was diagnosed with colon cancer and toward the end of her life she asked if I would speak about Dr. Howell at her funeral. Dr. Howell was in the congregation at Jean's funeral and he listened as I told the congregants that he was the person who listened to Jean's fears and allowed her to take control of how the end of her life would look. She wanted to die at home and Dr. Howell made home visits daily. She wanted to be, to the extent possible, free of physical pain and Dr. Howell provided the Hospice nurses with the appropriate medications. Most importantly, she wanted a practitioner who would listen and would offer emotional comfort and Dr. Howell was the doctor who was able to do so. My guess is that Dr. Howell provided this kind of care for many of his terminal patients but in Jean Serdiuk's mind, he was always present for her.