Obituary of Roger G. Howell

Roger G. Howell passed away Sunday, January 27, 2019, surrounded by his loving family, after a stroke. Roger was born on February 13, 1945 in Callaway, Nebraska. He was the fourth son born to Henry and Pearl Howell. As a young boy, Roger moved with his parents to Wilder, Idaho, where he went to school, then later graduated from Payette High School. After graduation, Roger served in the United States Army from June 1963 until his honorable discharge in May 1966. He was first station at Fort Campbell, Kentucky then deployed to Germany for the remainder of his enlistment. When his service was complete, Roger returned to Wilder where he met and married the love of his life, Julie Fernandez. They were happily married for 43 years until Julie’s passing on June 6th, 2010. In later years, Roger was blessed to share his love and life with Vi Lidell, who was by his side from that point on.

Throughout Roger’s life, he displayed his dedication to others.  He was committed to the Wilder Fire Department and helped to form the Quick Response Unit. As Roger grew with experience, he chose to support his community by being elected as a city council member for over 23 years.  After Roger retired from his role at the Boise Water Project, he was still committed to helping others through community service at the Idaho Food Bank.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Pearl Howell; two older brothers, Loren and John Howell; and his wife Julie Howell. He is survived by his brother, Richard (June) Howell; children, Randy (Tonya) Howell, Tammy (Frank) Howell-Dunda, and the youngest Angela Renae Ibarra. His surviving grandchildren include Michael (Megan) Howell, Natassia (Christian) Coonce, Joshua Ruiz, Allysa Howell, Eliana Ibarra, Kayla Ibarra, Quincy Howell, Aaron (Lori) Dunda, Kris (Matt) Drumheller, three great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews; Vi Lidell and her children and grandchildren.

Roger has been an amazing example for his family and friends. He always had a smile or a wave for those passing by. His contribution to our lives and his community will be forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held at Wilder Golden Gate Baptist Church on February 2nd at 12:00 pm, with internment immediately following at Wilder Cemetery. Viewing is on Friday, February 1st from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Flahiff Chapel in Caldwell.  Services are under the direction of Flahiff Funeral Chapels.