Gilbert (Jim) Howell

Jim  Howell

March 21, 1938 – May 30, 2015

Gilbert (Jim) Howell passed suddenly of a heart attack at his home on the morning of Saturday, May 30.

Jim was a third generation Montrose native.  His grandfather was one of five brothers who immigrated to Colorado from England in the 1890’s.  Jim was exceedingly proud of his Colorado heritage.

He was born to Naomi and Gilbert Howell in his mother’s hometown of Boulder, although he spent his childhood in Bostwick Park, where his family were cattle ranchers.  Jim attended Montrose High School where he excelled in sports, especially football, and was named to the Colorado All-State football team in 1956.

Jim was awarded a football scholarship to the University of Colorado, from where he graduated in 1961 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education.  Later he completed a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Los Angeles State University.

He pursued a teaching career in Southern California which lasted for 37 years.  In 1965 he met and married Beverly Jean Schaff of Long Beach, CA, who was also a teacher.  This marriage produced three fine sons.   Jim was the head football coach at Western High School in Anaheim, CA for 17 years.  A special joy for Jim was being able to coach his three sons, Jim, Toby, and Barry on the Western teams.  In 1995 he was honored in being named the Orange County Coach of the Year.  During his tenure he coached several future NFL players.  His son, Toby, succeeded him as head coach.

He retired in 1997 and returned to Montrose with his wife, Beverly.  In 2007 they moved to the golf community of Cobble Creek where they were so happy. Many wonderful summers were spent at the family cabin and mountain property  on the Blue Mesa.  Jim and his dad had spent many seasons here on horseback tending their cattle.

During retirement, Jim and Bev enjoyed several wonderful overseas travel trips, including to New Zealand, Australia, Africa, South America, England, Europe, and in their trailer to  Mexico and Alaska. For the last five years they have spent the winter season in the Palm Springs, CA area. Most recently, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a European river cruise.

Jim is survived by his wife Beverly, three sons, James Gregory of Boulder, Toby Dixon of Huntington Beach, CA and Barrett Wade of Fort Collins, daughters-in-law, Daniela and Jennifer, beloved grandchildren, Avery, Savanna, Hannah, and Mia.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Crippin Chapel on Friday, June 5th at 4 PM.

Crippin Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.