William Howard "Howie" Kendall

William Howard "Howie" Kendall, 47, of Missoula, died unexpectedly at his home Tuesday, March 17, 2015.

Howie was born at St. Joseph Hospital in Denver, the son of Bill and Beth Kendall. Howie grew up in Missoula and graduated from Hellgate High School in 1987. He attended the University of Montana, where he graduated with a degree in biology and secondary education. Howie worked for many years for Blackfoot Telephone Co.

Howie was an avid fisherman, something he learned from his father and a passion he shared with his children. He felt most at peace in the harmony and serenity of a river.

Howie enjoyed staying active and spent many hours golfing and playing tennis. He passionately dedicated his time as a volunteer coach for his children's youth baseball teams. He was a well-loved tennis coach for years at Hellgate High School as he taught technique and shared life lessons. Outside of sports, Howie was also known among academic groups to be a surprisingly brilliant chess player – an example of one of those little surprise qualities that made him so special.

Howie touched many lives with his sense of humor and wit. He was a sensitive soul who loved to help and listen to others. He formed very strong relationships with many people in the Missoula Valley and beyond. Most of all, he loved his two sons, Tyler and Bugsy. He will be missed.

Howie is survived by his two sons, Tyler and William "Bugsy" Kendall of Missoula; their mother, Joy Kendall of Missoula; his parents, Bill and Beth Kendall of Missoula; sister, Ann Kendall of Minneapolis; his brother-in-law, Aaron Lauson, and his nephew, Jones Lauson of Minneapolis.

The family would like to thank all of Howie's Alcoholic Anonymous brothers for the compassion and unwavering support provided to Howie during this challenging time.

In lieu of flowers, an account is being set in Howie's memory at the Missoula Federal Credit Union for his sons Tyler and William "Bugsy."

A gathering will be held Monday, March 23, from 1 to 4 p.m. at The Keep to share stories of Howie; friends and family are welcome.
Read William Kendall's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.