Kathleen Karen Howell
- Aug 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 7
A beloved educator, devoted mother, cherished grandmother,
and treasured friend, Kathleen Karen Howell lived a life defined
by curiosity, compassion, unwavering faith in the goodness
of others, and an enduring love for her family.
Kathleen Karen Howell, 84, passed away peacefully on July 14,
2026, in Spokane, Washington. She was born on February 11, 1942, in
Clarkston, Washington, to Vivienne Dorothy Armstrong and John Robert
King. Her stepfather was Paul Buchhorn.
Kathleen was the eldest of five siblings: Colleen Baker, Judy Long,
Diana Swope, and Ralph King. Throughout her life, she was known for
her warmth, kindness, infectious sense of humor, and genuine spirit.
Everyone who knew her loved her, and she had a remarkable gift for
making people feel welcome and valued.
A lifelong learner and dedicated educator, Kathleen earned her
teaching degree from Eastern Washington University before receiving
her master’s degree in Administration and Curriculum from Gonzaga
University. She devoted her career to inspiring young minds and fellow
educators alike. In addition to teaching her own students, she shared
her passion for astronomy by teaching the subject to other teachers.
In recognition of her excellence and dedication, she was nominated for
Teacher of the Year in 1985.
Kathleen was preceded in death by her beloved son, Joseph
Howell Jr.
Above all else, Kathleen treasured her family. She is survived by
her children, Bret Howell and Meegan Vanderburgh; her son-in-law,
Aaron Twete; her six beloved grandchildren: Alan Howell, Colton
Howell, Randall Harris, Erica Vanderburgh, Macy Vanderburgh, and
Dakota Twete; and her great-grandchildren Emma and Andre Stevens.
Her greatest joy came from spending time with those
she loved, especially during family gatherings, camping trips, and
moments by the water.
Kathleen found joy in reading, writing, and exploring the
fascinating workings of the human brain. She loved a good brain
teaser and was known for her creativity and impeccable decorating
talent. She approached life with tenacity, positivity, humor, and grace.
Vivacious, genuine, warm, and loving, she believed that everything
happens for a reason and that good can come from even life’s greatest
challenges.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at
1:00 p.m. at Pines Cemetery, Spokane, Washington, with a reception to
follow at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Family and friends are invited to
gather in celebration of Kathleen’s beautiful life and the lasting legacy
of love she leaves behind.
Kathleen will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Though
she is no longer with us, her wisdom, laughter, generosity, and
unconditional love will remain in the hearts of her family and friends
always.
“Love you to the moon and back!”
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