Pamela Jean Howard “Grandma” passed away on July 26, 2014. Born to Leroy and Helene Owen on March 31, 1943, she was a lifelong resident of Spokane, WA. She attended St. Charles Elementary and Marycliff Catholic School throughout her school years.  Pam graduated with a bachelor’s degree in speech therapy, and later had a rewarding career as a benefits administrator.

She was happily married to the love of her life Carl E. Howard for 30 years, sharing a loving relationship centered on family. Pam’s pride and joy were her 17 grandkids, and she had a special bond with each one. Everyone was welcome at “Gramma Ham’s” house, always greeted with a smile, and hug and a meal. She served as the family matriarch, spreading her unconditional love and kindness to not only her own family, but to all that she met. Pam had a knack for making everyone feel special, and countless people were lucky to call her their adopted Grandma. She was a spitfire and her witty sense of humor brought light to the room.

Pam adored her five children, Carla Erickson (Scott), John McVicker (Ann), Melisa McVicker, Darcy Stirn (Pat), and is preceded in death by her daughter Toby May. Pam’s canine children, Chinook and Canuck (deceased), were cherished and doted on as much as her grandkids. She loved sewing, quilting, knitting, card games as well as spending time gardening. Pam is preceded in death by her brother Jim Owen.

Donations can be made in her name to the Rypien Foundation (www.rypienfoundation.org), which reflects her love for children. Heaven gained a fabulously loving and sassy angel named Pam.

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