Hood River Or. December 11, 2023 - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Carol Jean Howe, a woman who lived a remarkable life filled with love, kindness, and countless cherished memories. She peacefully departed this world at home with family by her side on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at the age of 95, in her hometown Hood River, Oregon.

Carol was born on November 13, 1928, to Harry and Gertrude Caughey in Hood River, Oregon. She was raised on her parent’s dairy farm in Odell, Oregon. She lived during the great depression and that created many lifelong impressions and admirable character traits. These included the value of a dollar, hard work, and determination to push through difficult times.

She graduated in 1947 from Odell High School and was valedictorian of her senior class. During her school years, Carol was active in athletics, student government, and glee club and performed in several class plays. She attended Eastern Oregon College and earned a business degree.

On January 22, 1950, Carol married the love of her life, Charles ‘Tom’ Howe at St. Marks Church in Hood River. They were married for 53 years until his passing in February 2003. Carol was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, aunt, great-aunt, and great great aunt, her family was the center of her universe and her love for them knew no bounds. She leaves behind her legacy of love, unity, and strength.

In 1952, Carol began her working career at Hood River Hospital. She started as a switchboard operator, and over the years worked her way up to become the accounting and personnel manager. She also assisted and advised many of the Hospital administrators during her 33 years of service. She was admired by her co-workers for being a loyal, motivated, and hard-working manager, working above and beyond what was expected.

One of Carol and Tom’s ambitions was to travel after they retired. They were avid travelers, enjoying many years of RVing with Good Sams Travel Club. They traveled through the United States, including Alaska, to family reunions and enjoyed being snowbirds for many years in Mesa, Arizona.

Carol loved her hometown of Hood River, finding solace and joy in the beautiful surroundings, the picturesque landscapes, the flowing rivers, and the majestic mountains were not only her home but also a constant source of inspiration and tranquility. She was a true pillar of her community, known for her unwavering dedication to her family and friends and her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around her. Her warm and caring nature touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A true testament to her character, Carol dedicated her life to helping others. She was actively involved in St. Marks Church and other community organizations lending her time, and support and making anonymous donations to various causes. Her selflessness and compassionate nature touched the lives of many.

As we say goodbye to our beloved Carol, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit will forever live in our hearts. Her unwavering love, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire us to be the best version of ourselves. She will be deeply missed by her loving family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her.

May her soul find eternal peace, and may her beautiful legacy continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

Rest in peace beloved Carol you will be forever loved and cherished.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents Harry and Gertrude Caughey, her sisters Mildred McAvoy and Lois Marks, her husband Charles ‘Tom’ Howe and her nephew Ernie Thesman. She is survived by niece Susan Lageman and her children, niece Mary Ellen Bennett and husband Keith, nephew Tom Bennett, great niece Debbie Shemorry and husband Gary, and their children, great nephew Michael Thesman and wife Kimberly, and their children.

Services will be held at St. Marks on Friday, December 15, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Idlewild Cemetery will follow. A reception will be held at St. Marks after the service. In place of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Mark’s Episcopalian Church or an organization of your choice.

Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.