Howard, Eric Roland Thomas
May 20, 1954- December 6, 2023
With broken hearts, we the family of Eric Howard, announce his passing on Wednesday, December 6, 2023. He passed away peacefully at home with his beloved family by his side.
Eric leaves his cherished family to mourn: his wife Debbie, sons Brent (Jayda), Graham (Celeste). His beloved grandchildren: Hadley, Alden, Ellary, Jenson, Theodore and Charlotte. His sister Janet (Bert) Griffon, Brother Steve (Sue) Howard, Sister-in-Law Val (Mike) Graham, Brothers -in-Law Danny (Kelly) Kinsella and Jack (Nancy) Kinsella. And, his beloved nieces and nephews.
Eric was born on May 20, 1954 to Leslie and Rose Howard in Edmundston, N.B. The family moved to Plaster Rock, N.B. and lived there until Eric was 12 years old. Plaster Rock was the perfect setting for a young inquisitive, adventurous boy to explore with friends.
At the age of 13 Eric and his family moved to New Glasgow, N.S. There Eric thrived playing all sorts of sports, especially hockey. Eric played hockey throughout his life and earned the nick name “Elbows”!
After finishing high school, Eric ventured to University at St. FX in Antigonish, N.S. where he obtained his Bachelors of Science Degree.
After graduating from University Eric joined the RCMP. His first posting was Innisfail, AB. While stationed in Innisfail Eric met Debbie and they married in 1981. That began their 42+ years of adventures together. Debbie and Eric were blessed to welcome two sons, Brent and Graham, to complete their family. Eric’s “Boys” were the light and pride of his life. He loved watching them grow into incredible men with families of their own.
Eric’s RCMP career took him and the family to a number of postings: Innisfail, AB, Ft Vermilion, AB, Vermilion, AB, Ft. Smith, NWT, Arviat, Nunavut, Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, Slave Lake, AB, Airdrie, AB, Calgary, AB and Edmonton HQ, AB.
After retiring from the RCMP, Eric worked for Sobeys Security and for Encana Camp Security before fully retiring in 2016.
In the fall of 2020 Eric received a double lung transplant which blessed our family with another 3 years together.
A Memorial Mass was held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at St. Mary's Catholic Parish in Cochrane. In lieu of flowers, Donations to Alberta Lung Breathing Space may be made in honour of Eric. https://ablung.ca/breathing-space/
Condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.cochranecountryfuneral.com
