Mike Howard

James Michael Howard, 60, of Georgetown, passed away in the early morning hours of April 22, 2011 with his wife and son at his side. Mike was born on September 15, 1950 in Austin to James William and Grace Fraser Howard. He lived in Austin most of his life.

Mike is survived by Kerry, his wife and best friend of more than 41 years, their son Koy, his wife Janet and their precious daughter Kayden Grace. His granddaughter was the light of his life. He is also survived by his father and mother in-law, Jerry and Joyce Cox who were more like a father and mother to him. Other survivors include brother-in-law Kevin Cox, wife, Linda, and nephew and niece Brandon and Christy Cox. He also leaves behind a multitude of friends. These friends supported him throughout his life, and especially in his final days.

Mike served in the Texas Air National Guard and the Army Reserves, and rose to the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He then worked for various Texas state agencies during his more than 30 years of employment. He was dedicated to the delivery of the National Flood Insurance Program within the State of Texas, and in protecting lives and property. His many friends included the members of the Texas Floodplain Management Association. He graduated from Sul Ross State University in 1992 and was a loyal Lobo baseball fan.

Mike loved the outdoors and spent many years hunting and fishing. He loved teaching Kayden about nature and especially the moon and stars. Along with his family he enjoyed time at the lake and the beach during the summers and the hill country in the fall and winter. He was a member of the Valley of Austin Scottish Rite and a member of the Robert Burns Lodge #127.

The courage and strength he showed during his illness endeared him to family, friends and caregivers. He was an inspiration to all and never lost his sense of humor or fighting spirit. His perseverance was an affirmation of the incredible strength of the human heart. Mike made those around him better people.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, James and Grace Howard and his grandson, Forrest James Howard.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, April 25, at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 26 in the Chapel of Cook Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville, with Reverend Mark McNeese presiding.

To share your memories of Mike with his family, please visit www.cookwaldencapitalparks.com