Howard Eldon Newell was born Nov. 10, 1927, on Whidbey Island at Midvale. He was the third of five children born to Roy A. Newell and Bessie E. Lyons Newell. He passed away on Jan. 22, 2007 at Providence Hospital in Everett. He was 79.

At an early age, Howard left home and shipped out with the Merchant Marines. He spent the next 10 years traveling to places like Japan, the South Pacific and other places around the world. He enjoyed telling stories of his travels.

He then returned to Whidbey Island and worked for the Washington State Ferries, retiring in 1984 after 29 years of service. He loved his job and the people he worked with. His favorite ferry to work on was the Kulshan.

Howard married Bonnie Olsen on July 26, 1957. He is survived, by his wife, Bonnie, of Clinton; daughters Audrey (Jim) Spencer of Langley and Laurie Newell of Freeland; grandsons Brian Osborne of Kirkland and Chris Yale of Mill Creek; one sister, Orva Jean (Ralph) Schminkey of Gig Harbor; a brother, Russell (MiYung) Newell of Las Vegas, Nev.; and numerous nieces and nephews. His parents and two brothers, Guy Newell and Raymond Newell, preceded him in death.

Howard was a very kind and caring person who was devoted to his family and known for always helping out his neighbors and friends. He would also take his daily walks around the neighborhood, smiling and waving at everyone he passed. We all love him and will miss him very much.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at Visser Funeral Home in Langley, followed by graveside services at Bayview Cemetery.