RAY HOWARD – August 20, 1928-May 17, 2023

Ray Howard was born on August 20, 1928, in Nephi, Utah, to Gilbert Henry Howard and Florence Price. He had an older brother, Jack.

Ray learned to work hard at a very young age, taking care of his family's horses and cows. He worked with his dad on cattle ranches throughout his childhood and his young adult life.

Ray honorably served in the Army. During his military service, he worked as a surveyor in Germany after WW2. He became a surveyor for the government and surveyed all throughout the Northwest.

He worked for Lockheed Missiles and Space in Palmdale, California, and later in Sunnyvale, California, for 33 years. He was a kind, gentle, and humble man who always worked hard to support his family.

Ray found the love of his life, Kathel Karen Koitzsch, in Manti, Utah. They were sealed in the Manti Temple on April 13, 1956. Together they raised 3 children; Rock, Flint and Kathryn, in Fremont, California.

When Ray retired, he and Kathel moved to American Fork, Utah. He loved to work in his garden and took pride in his beautiful raspberry patch. Many happy hours were spent on the giant snow slide he made each winter. He lovingly worked on it every day so that his kids and grandkids could be safe and make wonderful memories.

Ray was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served faithfully as a financial clerk for many years, as well as in other callings. He and Kathel served in the Mount Timpanogos Temple, where they made many new friends and loved their time there.

Ray's family meant the world to him. He was a man who taught by example. He loved being together with family as often as he could be.

Ray was heartbroken when Kathel passed away on June 5, 2016. He always spoke lovingly of her and was anxious to be with her again.

Ray passed away on May 17, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Jack, and 3 infant granddaughters.

He is survived by his children; Rock (Susan) Howard, Flint (Karen) Howard, and Kathryn (John) Coker.

He leaves 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.