Wanda Howard, age 88, of Zillah, Washington passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, December 27, 2011. Wanda was born May 23, 1923 in Sterling, Colorado, the third of twelve children, to Roy and Gladys Smith. During the Depression, the family eventually relocated to the Yakima Valley, where she spent the rest of her days.
During her teenage years, while thinning peaches together at the "Georgeoff place," Wanda met the love of her life, Harold Howard. On March 17th 1942 they began their marriage of over 69 years. Wanda and Harold settled in the Lower Valley where they began a successful orchard business and raised four children together.
Wanda enjoyed camping and fishing with Harold, spending many happy weekends together in the Potholes area. During her life, she was a member of the Rebecca Lodge in Wapato, the Toppenish Eagles and also actively participated in various Lower Valley bowling leagues. She was known for her neighborly hospitality, her "green thumb," her wonderful cooking ability, and her competitive spirit when playing cards!
Wanda had a gift for some-how always making room at the table for "just one more." She taught us that life is sweeter when you start the day with coffee and cake - and that nothing is more important than family.
Wanda is survived by husband Harold; four children, Roger Howard (Sandy), Jim Howard, Steve Howard (Jane), and Joanne Rosen (Leonard); siblings Ernie Smith (Donna), Larry Smith (Carol), Ruby Combs (Richard), George Smith (Sandra), Ray Smith (Kathy) and Betty Harmon (Harold). She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for the dedicated people who cared for our Mother over the years - including Dr. Sule, the staff at Toppenish Community Hospital, Yakima Regional Hospice, and Sister Fey.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday January 7, 2012 at the Sunnyside United Methodist Church.
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