Barbara Ann "Bobbie" Howard's Obituary
Barbara Ann “Bobbie” Howard passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024, after a
courageous battle with vascular dementia in South Jordan, Utah.
She was the first born to James and Ruth Miskel, in Oakland, California on September 27, 1944.
She loved being part of both her Danish and Irish families. Her sister and cousins were some of
her closest friends throughout her life. She graduated from El Cerrito High School in 1962. Soon
after, Bobbie met and married Frank Howard in 1965. They settled down and raised their two
daughters in Gridley, California. Bobbie was active in the community, was a member of the
Junior Women’s Club, PTA, and was a bank teller at Central Bank for many years.
After her divorce, later in life, Bobbie pursued her education, and in 1992, she proudly graduated
from Chico State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She then went
on to work at both Biggs-Gridley Memorial Hospital and Colusa Memorial Hospital. Eventually,
she spent the majority of her career in Yuba City as a Human Resource Manager with Deluxe
Packages before she retired.
Bobbie was a woman of many talents and passions. She was an amazing cook and baker. She had
a green thumb as a gardener, could arrange the most beautiful bouquets, and canned the best pear
butter and jams. She could sew practically anything and was incredibly creative. She loved to
swim laps in her pool in the summertime and take walks with neighbors. Additionally, Bobbie
loved to travel, visiting beautiful places like Hawaii, Tahiti, New Orleans, Cancun, and many
more, creating treasured memories with each trip.
Known for her caring nature, Bobbie also possessed a sharp wit and feisty spirit that brought
laughter and light to those around her. However, her greatest love in life was spending time and
celebrating her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and pride. Being surrounded by
family, especially during special moments and celebrations, was what she cherished the most.
Bobbie is preceded in death by her parents and she is survived by her daughter and son in law,
Lesli and Chris Whitworth of UT; daughter Michele Howard of CA, sister Kathrine Waller (Don)
of NV; and her four grandchildren, Connor, Ryan, Megan, and Morgan. She is also survived by
her nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends.
A gathering in her honor will be held at a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?