Dallas Michael Howell Sr., 76

Dallas Michael Howell Sr., a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, passed away quietly in his sleep May 26, 2024. 

Dallas, the son of MayBelle and Alfred Howell, was born March 15, 1948, in Spokane, Wash. He grew up in Rathdrum, Idaho, lived there, and attended school there until 1965. Later, after his military service, he earned an associate’s degree from Spokane Community College in 1981.

At the age of 17, Dallas enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He valued this service highly, receiving several medals and attained the rank of Corporal. As part of his service, Dallas served in the Marines from March 1965 to March 1969, with two additional years in the Reserves. He was stationed in Chu Lai, Vietnam, from March 1966 to March 1967. He served with the 1st Shore Party Battalion, 1st Marine Division.  

In late 1965, he married Gloria Riffle before he shipped off to Vietnam. They were married for 58 1/2 years. Together, they raised three children. They have made their home outside Spirit Lake, Idaho, for the past 31 years.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman. His happy place was taking his boat out and fishing all day with his buddy Gale Smith. If that’s all he could do all day, that would be his life’s dream. He started teaching his grandchildren to fish as early as possible. It was a yearly event to take them camping and fishing at Roosevelt Lake and Lake Pend Oreille. 

One of his favorite places to visit was Scotland. He and his wife made three trips and stayed with some wonderful people who showed them the sights and countryside. He had just completed the number one thing on his bucket list, to visit his Uncle’s grave in Nettuno, Italy. His uncle was killed during WWII while fighting the Germans. 

He is survived by his wife, Gloria, at the family home, son Dallas Howell Jr. of Montana, daughter Deanna Perkins of Point Roberts, Wash., and son Eric and Shanna Howell of Spirit Lake, Idaho.  A sister, Vivian and Mark Smith of Post Falls, Idaho. Grandchildren: Brien, Tory, Mayghen, Lillie, Autumn and Cam, Sierra, Samantha and Colter, Evan, Jacob and EmmaLee. Grandchildren: Lynndsie, Daniel, Ashlin, Serenity, Ayden and Elias. Multiple nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, a sister, and his grandson, Tyler Nicholas Howell.

He will be so missed by his family and friends. He was the center of our family.  

A celebration of his life will be held at the family home July 27, 2024.