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Ralph Eugene Howard, known to his family and friends as "Gene" went to be with his Lord on May 27, 2006 following a lengthy bout of cancer. Gene was born to Robert and Zelma Howard on October 14, 1921 in Vinity, AR. He is survived by his wife, Elene (Walker) Howard of 45 years; daughters, Norene Smith and husband, Jim of Sanford, CO, Carolyn Andrews and husband, Frank of Montrose, CO and Shirley Janette Smith and mother, Lois of Wichita, KS; one brother, Haskell Starbuck of Ann Arbor, MI; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; six nephews; and one niece. He was preceded in death by his brother, Leo Starbuck on May 15, 2006, from cancer; brother, Jack Starbuck of cancer in 2004; two sisters; and his parents. Gene served in WWII in the Army Infantry, 32nd Division. For his service and bravery he was awarded the Bronze Star, three Purple Hearts, and numerous medals for good conduct and various engagements of combat. Upon retiring from the service in 1945 he moved to New Mexico to a drier climate. After he regained his health he made his life work as a carpenter. In later years he stayed busy maintaining the rental properties he and his wife owned. He was an active member of Fellowship Baptist Church. In his honor, memorials may be made to the Building Fund, Fellowship Baptist Church, 414 Charleston SE, ABQ, NM 87108. Services will be held at Fellowship Baptist Church on Friday, June 2, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. with burial at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. Visitation will be held at French Mortuary, Lomas Blvd. Chapel, 10500 Lomas Blvd., NE, on Thursday, June 1, 2006 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. French Mortuary 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE 275-3500
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