THOMAS FRANKLIN HOWES

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

THOMAS FRANKLIN HOWES Peacefully on February 24, 2008 Thomas Franklin Howes passed away at the St. Boniface Hospital with his family surrounding him. Tom was born in Winnipeg on January 25, 1917 where he spent his young years farming just outside of Starbuck. This stayed with him for many years as he always asked when someone went for a trip How were the crops. He left home at 17 to became a coal miner. From there he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force. He met Norma and they were married on December 24, 1947, his wife of 49 years, until her passing on April 14, 1997. He became employed with Manitoba Hydro also in 1947. He was proud to be with them for 38 years until his retirement. He had fond memories of towns such as Arborg and St. Norbert. Tom and Norma were avid sport fans and had season tickets for the Blue Bombers, Goldeyes and Winnipeg Jets. Tom's love of sports continued with the coaching of St. Norbert Men's baseball and manager of the Fort Garry Lions football team. He always enjoyed curling, both as a participant and fan. Tom was always ready for a game of Crib. He became a fan of youth sports starting with his son's sports endeavors. This continued with his grandchildren, as he was their biggest fan. He went to hockey rinks, soccer, football and baseball fields and figure skating venues for many years. This started a strong bond with his grandchildren, which continued to his passing. They knew he was always there for them. Grampa was always the second phone call after their parents knew of any exciting news. Tom was a fair-minded man and every individual was considered an equal in his eyes. He would start up a conversation with anyone, be it in an elevator or emergency waiting room. He was always interested in people and was a great listener. When he met someone he always spent the time getting to know about them and their families, both past and present. His love of reading helped in his self-education. He was very knowledgeable in history and had a passion for politics. Tom will be missed by his family and friends and will be remembered for his great sense of humour. He could always find the funny side of any situation. Tom was predeceased by his wife Norma, parents Tom and Minnie, sister Audrie Perry, and companion Marjorie Benum. He is survived by sons, Bill, David (Kim) and daughter Bonnie (Denis) Arbez; as well as grandchildren, Derek (Jill), Chris (Louise), Geoff (Michelle), Lindsay, Kelsey and Tommy, great-grandchildren, Dawsyn and George, and sister Gladys (Cliff) Cox. Memorial service will be held on Friday, February 29, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main Street with interment to follow. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations can be made in Tom's memory to the Manitoba Lung Association, 629 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1P6, KidsSports Canada-Manitoba, 200 Main St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 4M2 or to the charity of your choice. GLEN EDEN FUNERAL HOME 338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 26, 2008