Ian Whitney Howard

Ian Whitney Howard, 55, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024, in Harrisburg, OR. 

Ian was born in Augsburg, Germany in 1969, lovingly adopted in 1971, and raised by his mother, Marbi Wise, with his sister Jenna, in northern California. In 1997 he permanently planted his flag in Oregon. There he met the love of his life and best friend, Heather Robinson Howard. They married in 2003 and enjoyed life together with their beloved dogs and cat and being the adoring Aunt and Uncle to their nephew, John.

Ian was a philosopher at heart and was proud to have graduated from San Francisco State University with his degree in Philosophy. He had unique perspectives and wisdom developed through his contemplation and life experiences, all of which he generously shared with those closest to him. Besides philosophy, he also used his brilliant mind for humor. He was endlessly fun-loving and enjoyed nothing more than to make people laugh. Between his quick wit and love of word play, he had a whole repertoire of "Howard Homemade Funnies" that he graced his family and friends with over the years. He also had an uncanny talent of retaining details and statistics related to his various interests, most notably his passion for cars. He was a virtual encyclopedia of car specs of all types, but especially his own Corvette.

He aspired to a simple, contented life and had an unusual ability to be still. He loved nature and was happiest just observing it. He especially reveled in staring at the night sky and giving pet names to the frogs and other wildlife in his backyard. He always encouraged others to slow down and look at the world "through the wonder of a child's eyes." 

Ian was selective about who he let close to him, but those who were fortunate to be among his dearest loved ones were blessed and immeasurably changed by his bright character and tender heart. 

Ian was always fascinated by the big cosmic mysteries, and he is no doubt now marveling in their majesty from his new, expansive vantage point. May he find ways to continue sharing with all of us who painfully miss him.

Ian is pre-deceased by his beloved grandparents Karl and Elizabeth Drexel, and his friend Dave Kearns. He is survived by his beautiful wife, Heather Howard; his mother Marbi Drexel Wise and stepfather Ronald Wise; sister Jenna Howard; mother-in-law Kathy Robinson, brother-in-law John Robinson, nephew John Robinson Jr., and dear friend Chris Ballard. 

A private memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Ian would like you to save your money, and in his honor, take some time to watch a sunset, have a beer, listen to your favorite music and just spend time appreciating your family and loved ones.