Donald Michael Howard (05/03/1953 - 09/10/2020)
 

Donald was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and brother-in-law. He was born in Shelton, WA where he was raised by his adopted parents. Don’s Native American heritage with the Skokomish Tribe in WA was something he held on to throughout his life. In recent years he reconnected with his sister and their family within the tribe. He moved to Oregon shortly after high school where in 1974 he had his first son, Jeremie Howard.  Don attended college at Southern Oregon University in Ashland, OR. This is where he earned his first degree and met the love of his life, Deborah Jensen. They later had two children of their own, Michael and Alexandria Howard. 

Don loved helping people in need and spending quality time with family. He loved spending time outdoors; hunting, fishing, boating, camping, gardening, and hiking. But what he enjoyed most in life was spending time with his grandchildren every chance he got.

Don’s career revolved around helping those in need. He worked at the Chemewa Indian School, Fairview Training Center, and for bulk years as a developmental disability case manager for Linn County, OR.

During his free time he loved volunteering and overseeing the Linn County Special Olympics and supported the fundraising needs of all athletes.

Donald is survived by his wife Deborah, children Michael and Alexandria, and many grandchildren whom all love and miss him dearly.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for spring of 2021 as long as COVID-19 allows.

The family has requested that any donations be made in Don’s honor at https://www.heifer.org as he has always enjoyed giving to those in need.