HOWARD:  After a long journey with dementia, David John Howard, 76, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, at Henley Place in London, ON surrounded by family. Though dementia slowly took pieces of him from us, it could never take away the love he gave, the laughter he shared, or the memories we’ll forever hold close.

Dave is missed by his devoted wife of 47 years, Sue (Lazaravich), and his children, Stephanie Grozelle, son-in-law Dan Grozelle, Jake Ruddy, and daughter-in-law Kyrianna Ruddy. Dave is forever cherished by his grandchildren, Sophie, Gavin, and Andrew Grozelle and affectionately remembered by his step-sister Leanne Pepper (Tim Belanger), and sister-in-law Angie Howard (Dan) and his Lazaravich  family.

Dave was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Cecil Howard (Carmen) and Olive Pepper (Fred), his grandmother Amy “Nan” Vaughan, his step-brother Randy Pepper, fishing buddy Brian Young, and his loyal companion Bandit. We can only imagine the two of them together again, playing fetch along the beach, just as they were meant to be.

Dave was the kind of person who made you feel at home with just a smile. He had a kind soul, a quick wit, and an easygoing presence that made everyone adore his company. Making others laugh was one of his greatest gifts, and he gave it generously. Dave loved the simple joys in life—especially fishing, playing cribbage, good food, listening to music, and long days on the beach. Somehow, the sun always managed to find him, lighting up his face like it knew he belonged in its warmth. Those golden days, with a rod in one hand and a beer in the other, were his little slice of heaven—and we hope that’s exactly what he’s found now. We take comfort in knowing that Dave’s spirit will forever shine in every sunset, every wave, and every story shared in his honour.

A Celebration of Dave Howard’s Life will be held at Boler Mountain, 689 Griffith St, London, on Wednesday, July 30, from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. with words of remembrance at 3:00 p.m. A private family scattering of ashes will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the T. Harry Hoffman & Sons Funeral Home, Dashwood. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff on the 1st floor of the Medway Wing at Henley Place for their care and compassion for Dave. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada alzheimer.ca