Howard Austin, 91

Howard Austin, 91, died June 19, at his home in Cedar City, Utah. He was born in Kalispell on Aug. 22, 1931, to Raymond and Hilda Austin.

His parents taught and exemplified the value and responsibility of a life of service and care for his fellow man. He never forgot those ideals and lived a lasting love for others, the farm and the communities in which he lived.

He was recognized by his infectious smile, endless enthusiasm and sense of humor. He frequently quoted, “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” Despite dealing with asthma all his life, he lived a full and rewarding life. He loved the challenge of mountain climbing and summited 14 peaks in Glacier Park. He was also an avid race walker, setting records in Montana and National competitions. He refereed basketball games for 15 years.

He married Barbara McCulloch and they became parents of four sons: Joel, Hugh, Ralph and Clifford. Their home was established at Lake Blaine.

A degree in Business Administration from MSU began 53 years in his lifelong profession. Conrad National Bank of Kalispell employed him as Manager of the Installment Loan Department.

During the 1960s and early 1970s, he served as Executive of the Bank of Columbia Falls. He was named Boss of the Year, received the Jayce’s Distinguished Service Award, and served as President of the Chamber of Commerce during those years.

He established his own business, Financial Services, in Kalispell. Ten years later he sold the business and became a Business Development Officer for Whitefish Credit Union. If there was a community project Howard was probably involved! He has served in many practices, among them, the Whitefish Annual Fundraiser for Children's Medical Needs, was King U.L.L.R.

He conducted seminars in finance for 13 area schools from Kalispell to Noxon. He volunteered for KIWANIS Flag Project and helped place flags on holidays throughout the years. He served on the Credit Union Community Pride Scholarship Programs and the Board of Friendship House.

He married Mary Clarke in 1993. They made their home in Whitefish until he retired to Cedar City, Utah. At the time of retirement, Howard was the No. 2 SBA Lenders for Montana and was on the Advisory Board for the state of Montana. He was an active member of Christ the King Catholic Church of Cedar City and was President of the Parish council.

He is survived by his wife, Mary of Cedar City; his sons, Joel (Susan) Hugh, Ralph (Kerrie), and Clifford; and his sister, Donna Tietema of Kalispell. He also leaves nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will miss this great man, as well his “furry” family: Lily, Gator and Bandit.

Condolences may be sent online to affodablefuneralservices.com or a charity of your choice. A funeral mass is scheduled for 11 a.m. on July 27, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 690 Cove Dr. Cedar City, Utah.