Randolph Max Howard

Randolph Max Howard (Randy) was born the eldest child to Max and Maxine (Berg) Howard. Randy was a fourth Generation Spokanite; Paternal great-great-grandson of Franz Pietsch, builder of the Clock Tower and the Spokesman-Review Building. He was also the Maternal Grandson of Mary (Gooby) Berg, the original homesteader of Sandpoint. Born and raised in East Central Spokane, he attended Edison Elementary, Libby Jr. High, and was a proud Lewis & Clark Tiger, Class of 65. He maintained friendships with his neighborhood buddies until his death. Like his father before him, Randy volunteered for the Army Airborne serving with the 1st of the 8th Cavalry and the 82nd Airborne as well as being an Army Ranger.

While serving two tours in Vietnam, Randy was awarded the Bronze Star with Oak-Leaf Clusters and five Purple Hearts. After returning from Vietnam, Randy attended SFCC where he played football and received an AA Degree in Business. He was recruited to the Spokane Fury, Spokane's Semi-Pro football team. Randy was well known for his 20+ years playing softball for many Spokane leagues. He also loved to hunt and fish. While cruising Riverside in 1967, Randy met Yvonne Gull, daughter of Al and Marion Gull. Randy and Yvonne celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary in June. Randy was employed in the Supply Chain Industry for about 20 years and ended his career with the USPO due to his wounds from Vietnam. He was a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, serving in various capacities for the Chapter. He and Yvonne attended numerous 1st of the 8th Cav reunions across the country. Randy was active until a fall in April which he never fully recovered from, and died of complications. Yvonne was at his side when he passed.

He was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws. He leaves behind his wife Yvonne, his sons, Brian Howard (Kara), and grandson, Zach of Rosalia, WA, Duane Howard, and Todd Howard of Spokane. A brother, Jack Howard, sisters Lynette (Jim) Spilker, and Robin (Roger) Waller, Sister-in-Law, Joyce Chapman, Brother-in-Law, Alan Gull (Debbie), nieces, nephews, and numerous cousins. His family and friends will truly miss Randy's stories and relentless friendly banter. The family would like to thank everyone for their cards and prayers, and also the Spokane Veteran's Home for their excellent and loving care. Sgt. Randolph M. Howard will be laid to rest in the Washington State Veteran's Cemetery on Thursday, September 28th at 11:15 a.m. A reception will follow at 1:00 at Darcy's Restaurant in the Spokane Valley.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/spokane-cremation for the Howard family.