Margaret E. Howe

Margaret Ellen Howe, age 96, passed away peacefully at home on July 4, 2023. She lived a remarkable life, filled with love and adventure, and had a profound impact on all who knew her.

Born on July 31, 1926, in Pocatello, Idaho, Margaret was the daughter of William Leland and Ethel Mae Stinger Barrett. She grew up alongside her four siblings in a close-knit community, where she developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for family values. Margaret's journey through each stage of her life was always marked by her unwavering determination and positive attitude.

As a child, Margaret loved to dance, sing, and act. She had a lifelong love of music and learned to play the drums and bells for her part in the Barretts’ family band that played at church dances and other events. At Pocatello High School, she played violin in the orchestra and sang in the choir.

In 1946, Margaret married Reed Howe, and together they built a beautiful life centered around love and devotion. They raised four children: Steve, Fred, Julie, and Janeen. Margaret embraced her role as a mother, providing unconditional love, support, and guidance to her children. She delighted in being a grandmother to 19 grandchildren, a great-grandmother to 56 great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandmother to one. “Grandma Maggie” cherished every moment spent with each and every one of them.

Throughout her life, Margaret was known for her adventurous spirit. She and Reed had a successful business together (Reno Glass); they built a ranch for their retirement; and they toured the country with their travel trailer, seeing the sights, fishing the rivers of Canada, and enjoying each other’s company. When Reed was no longer able to drive due to his neuromuscular disease (ALS), Margaret took the wheel, which was no easy task on some of the narrow, winding roads they encountered. 

Margaret's dedication and compassion were evident in her volunteer work at the VA Hospital, Leisure World Golden Age Foundation, and the Seal Beach Police Department (which brought about the beloved nickname “Sarge”). But her greatest accomplishment, one that serves as an example for the generations to come, is how she lovingly took care of Reed as his health declined over the waning years of his life until his passing in 1994. She was determined to keep him home and give him the love and attention only she could give. It was not easy, but she wouldn’t have it any other way. Her family is forever grateful for her devotion.

During retirement, Margaret enjoyed activities like quilt making, ceramics, and oil painting. She had a special fondness for bowling and golf, excelling in both and achieving six impressive holes-in-one throughout her life. After moving to a retirement community in Arizona, she made new friends, joined the fun playing bingo and blackjack, and attended various shows and entertainment.

Margaret was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and found great joy in her faith. Her greatest comfort came from her knowledge that families can be together forever, which she cherished after being sealed by proxy to Reed in the Bountiful Temple.

Margaret will be remembered for her cheerful countenance, her quick wit, and her unwavering love and support for her family. Her legacy of strength, resilience, and positivity will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her favorite quote defines her outlook on life:

“Attitude is your only handicap.  Happiness is a choice.” And she chose happiness.

Margaret Howe is survived by her children, Stephan (Leslie), Fred (Bonnie), Julie, and Janeen Conley (Bill), along with her numerous posterity. She will be deeply missed by all her family and friends. May her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration for those who were touched by her remarkable life.

A celebration of Margaret's life will be held at a graveside service at the Arimo City Cemetery in Idaho on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 11 a.m.

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