David Ralph Howard

It is with a heart full of love and celebration that I share the news of the passing of David Ralph Howard, age 84, from Phoenix, Arizona. David peacefully left us on Friday, January 9th, 2026 at the Amiga2 group home, ready to be reunited with his wife, Lana and warmly embraced by all his family and friends in heaven after bravely fighting an 8-year battle with dementia.

David was born in 1941 to Bernard and Edna Mae in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lana and siblings Mary Kay, Louie, and Kevin. He is survived by his siblings Vincent, Steven, and sister Gail; his five children Kim, Patrick, Mark, Karen, and David Michael; his 16 grandchildren Jayson, Jamie, Kayla, Emily, Abel, Jennifer, Jessica, Sadie, Samantha, Natali, Emma, Stephanie, Melissa, Justin, Alyssa, and Amber; and his 22 great-grandchildren Paige, Talon, Cayson, Abigail, Devon, Ruben, Klara, Geneva, Jason, Jentrie, Josie, Shiloh, Brendan, Aria, Kaitlyn, Grayce, Eviah, Blakley, Luke, Viktor, Addilee, and Marc Jr.

David graduated from high school in Michigan and joined the Marine Corps in 1958. He graduated from the RCO Leadership School and served in the elite Forest Recon Division as a machine gunner and director of small arms. During his service, he earned a Good Conduct Medal and a Rifle Expert’s badge. David was honorably discharged in 1964, after which he moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 1968. There, he partnered with his brother-in-law to own and operate a jewelry store until his retirement in 2020.

David called Phoenix home for 45 years, which is where he met his beloved wife Lana, who remained his partner until her passing in 2023. Together, they shared a passion for travel, exploring destinations such as Alaska, New Zealand, and Greece. They also frequently flew to San Francisco to enjoy fresh sourdough bread, fish, and the beautiful views. Lana shared David's love for jewelry and helped him run their stores until his retirement.

David had an enduring passion for cars, particularly his Viper-Vet, and he enjoyed attending car shows on weekends with his daughter Kim and best friend Harvey. David and Harvey shared a special bond, working together, laughing, and telling jokes. In their later years, David and Lana's three dogs, Precious, Raderette, and Oso, became their children. These dogs were cherished and could do no wrong in his eyes.

David's remarkable life as a loving father, grandfather, and military veteran continues to inspire us with its beauty and strength. He left an indelible mark, and his legacy will endure through our cherished memories. He was lighthearted, funny, and caring, truly loving his family and friends. He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the wonderful people at the Amiga2 group home and to the Hospice of the Valley nurses (particularly Giancarlo), Chaplin Leandro and doctors. David, may you finally rest in peace, free from pain, and in loved ones arms. We love you always.