Don L Howard, 86, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2017, with his family by his side. One of six children, Don grew up in Puyallup, became an Eagle Scout, and graduated from Puyallup High School in 1949. He then married his high school sweetheart Betty Robbins. They settled in the Midland-Summit area. Don made countless friends over the year through his involvement with Good Sam's Club and his church. He influenced many youngsters during his years as a coach for Little League and Pee Wee Football in the Midland area with his assistant Steve Kruse. He was a dedicated Teamster and worked as a foreman at Sam's Tires for more than 30 years until he retired. He had a busy social life, full of church activities, bowling, bridge, poker, and RV-ing with family and friends. Don enjoyed hunting with his brothers and would scout out the "perfect spot" in advance so everyone would be able to have their favorite venison sausage every year. Don loved his boat the "Betty L". Don and Betty had many adventures on the Betty L, including a trip to Alaska. No fish was safe when Don and Betty had their poles in the water. Don is preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Betty Lorraine Howard, his son James Douglas Howard, sisters Sheila Nemie and Caroline Jordan. He is survived by his long time companion, Carol Thompson, sister Marjorie Ford, brothers Dean and Doug Howard, as well as his children Donna Howard (Dan Bijold) and Mark Howard (Elisa). Don was fortunate to be blessed with many grandchildren; Jason Kruse, Shelby Davis and Jessica Turner, and his step-grandchildren Kevin Cogger, Tom Cogger, and Michaele Cogger Atkinson. He treasured his great grandsons; Jack and Salem, twins Liam and Henry, and Teddy and Thomas. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 10 at 2pm at Mountain View Funeral Home's Celebration of Life Building in the Willow Room. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to the American Heart Association.