April 5, 1940 - September 3, 2020
It is with deep sadness that the family of Bertram Alexander Howell ("Al") announces his passing on September 3rd, 2020 surrounded by his family.
Al was born on April 5th, 1940 in Meadow Lake Saskatchewan. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend Heidi of 58 years, sons Kevin (Christine), Justin (Holly), Jason (Angie), Daniel (Stephanie) and Alex, grandchildren Jordan (Lisa), Lauren, Zoe, Daphne, Isaac, Danika, Lucy and Alexander. Brothers Brian (Christi), Marshall (Maureen), and sister Lynn (Wally), brothers-in-law Reinhold and Zygmund (Sandy), sisters-in-law Jacqueline and Donna, and many special nieces and nephews. Pre-deceased by daughter Kaira, father Roy Churchly Howell, mother Ina, brothers John Marshall, Roy Kimball, and Glenn Douglas.
Al lived life with integrity, intelligence, and compassion, and was the foundation upon which his family built their lives. He formed a unique relationship with every one of his children, grandchildren and their spouses; he always saw the good in them and taught them to see it in themselves and others.
Al was a lifelong learner, a voracious reader, lover of roses, movies, theatre, music, sports and politics. In spite of the many challenges Al faced in his early life, he was the consummate optimist. When diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 69, he tackled it with the same courage and optimism that defined his life. Even in his passing, he will remain an inspiration to all those who knew him.
Thank you to Dr. Sue Turgeon and the physicians and staff at VGH, including his niece Eilidh Strecha, for their compassionate care of Al.
As per his wishes, there will be no service. Al's ashes will be interred at the Kitimat Municipal Cemetery in Kitimat, B.C.; the town where he found the love of his life, was married and raised his boys.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to Covenant House Vancouver.