Roll Call Tribute

Published in Houston Chronicle on April 18, 2010 LOUIS J. HOWARD LOUIS J. HOWARD, 82, was called home on April 14, 2010. Born in Oakdale, Louisiana, on August 31, 1927, Louis spent most of his life as a proud Texan, complete with an Aggie's "Gig `em" thumb up. After graduating from Jeff Davis High School in Houston, Texas, Louis began his studies at Texas A&M University. Louis then took a two-year break from his studies to serve in the United States Navy. After this, he returned to A&M to earn his degree in Architectural Construction while also earning the pride of being an Aggie. Louis's desire to serve his beloved country inspired him to return to the military after his college graduation in 1950. He served as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve. Soon thereafter, he became a Master Mason of the Galena Park Lodge #1290 where he enjoyed the camaraderie for over 50 years.Louis spent most of his career in the steel building business where he worked for many large companies before beginning a successful steel business with his sons. Family mattered most to Louis. He was the proud father of five sons and one daughter, and he happily expanded his family by two more children in 1986 when he married Mina Beth. His devotion to his family continued with the addition of 22 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Mina Beth Howard; children: Louis Jay Howard and wife Donna of Sargent, Texas; Harvey Allen Howard and wife Liz of Sargent, Texas; Donna Sue Howard and fiancé Tom Hutchins of Nashville, Tennessee; Thomas Lee Howard and wife Cheri of Sequine, Texas; Kenneth Earl Howard and wife Susan of Pasadena, Texas; Harlan Scott Howard of Montgomery, Texas; Traci Forbes Willis and husband Scott of Huffman, Texas; and David Wells Forbes of Huffman, Texas. He is also survived by his two sisters, Jimmie Neece of Centerville, Texas, and Kathy Kilgore and husband Robert of Longview, Texas.Louis loved road trips, especially when they ended at the doorstep of a family member or when he arrived at the perfect hunting or fishing spot. He and Mina were the perfect team as they traveled around and especially when they outscored their opponents in a friendly game of 42.Louis' life will be celebrated in a Memorial Service on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at1 p.m. at the Deer Park Funeral Home, 336 East San Augustine. A reception will follow at the Deer Park Fireman's Rec Hall, 711 East Pasadena Blvd.

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