Howard Leroy Lafrenz

Howard Leroy Lafrenz a 60-year resident of the Longview area passed away on August 13, 2022 at the age of 61.

He was born to Gordon and Betty Lafrenz on December 22, 1960 in Sioux Falls, SD. Howard worked as a butcher at Frank’s Meats in the Kalama Shopping Center throughout high school. After graduating in the class of ’79 from Kalama High School, he went to work at Norpac where he would dedicate almost 42 years of service before retiring in July 2021.

He met his wife Julie when they were partners in the wedding party of their mutual friend Laurie Slunaker. Julie and Howard were married on September 29, 1984.

He was a naturally gifted artist who created paintings, drawings, illustrations, and woodworking throughout his life. He helped restore the totem pole that previously stood at the Kalama Marine Park. He loved the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and spent his leisure time outdoors enjoying hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping.

Howard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He is preceded in death by his parents Betty and Gordon and is survived by his wife, Julie and their three sons Nicholas, Skylar and Lane, his granddaughter Jocelyn and his siblings Ginger and Darrell.

A Celebration of Life ceremony honoring Howard will be held on Sunday, August 28th at 2:00 p.m. at Haydu Park, 253 Kalama River Road, Kalama, WA.