Jeffrey W. Howell
September 19, 1961 - May 13, 2004
Sharon Springs Volunteer Fire Department
Rank: Class A Firefighter
Age at the time of death: 42
Jeff received “the calling” in the spring of 1994. As
he drove through the country, he came upon a burning home, its owners
desperately trying to salvage anything they could. The local volunteer
fire department hadn’t yet made it to the scene, so the only thing
he could do was help them save anything they could carry until the trucks
arrived. He realized then first hand the need for more volunteers
in a rural community, and joined Carlisle Volunteer Fire Department the
next day.
After nearly 10 years of service to Carlisle, Jeff transferred to Sharon
Springs department and continued unselfishly helping others until his
untimely death. On May 13, 2004 he was one of the first to respond
to a burning farmhouse. Much like his first experience, he began
racing to help its inhabitants save what they could from their burning
home. When the trucks began arriving a short time later, he helped
with the hoses. He sat to rest, complaining he didn’t feel
well (something he would never do) and died of a heart attack on the
scene a short time later. Though his big heart stopped on that
evening – the love and friendships it possessed will live on forever…
Jeff loved the fire department, and the bonds that formed from within. He
was well loved and respected in both departments – taking his duty
VERY seriously, and never turning down a request to help out. Nothing
stopped him from responding to a call – even a close Miami Dolphins
game (though he always made sure someone taped the end for him). He
was passionate about the “brotherhood”, marching in local
and state parades – including a long New York City march with thousands
in the pouring rain – and loving every minute of it! In the
end that same brotherhood came to honor and respect their fallen comrade – with
full support from departments all around the State. Though the
day is now a blur, the procession, memorials and services from all who
unselfishly gave their time to participate and pay their respects for
one of their own will never be forgotten.
Besides a fireman, Jeff was a skilled carpenter with a passion for woodwork. Though
he had built many homes, his true gift was in custom finish work. He
owned his own sawmill and woodworker’s shop, and was able to accomplish
any challenge with true craftsman’s hands – starting with
a tree, ending with the trim. One of his many hobbies was collecting
crystals, minerals and gemstones. The combination of wood and stone
allowed him and his wife Cindy to turn their home into an artist’s
gallery of custom detail work.
His true joy in life was his wife Cindy and son Christopher. Married
for almost 19 years, and together for 24 – Cindy is his partner,
best friend and soul mate. Their young son Christopher was God’s
gift to both of them, and Jeff’s “best pal”. Jeff’s
business and Cindy’s unselfish devotion to her family and career
allowed Jeff to care for Christopher for his first four and a half years – instilling
virtue and a father’s bond to last him his lifetime.
Jeff had a true love of life – living every day to its fullest,
and enjoying all things great and small. His good nature, sense
of humor and infectious smile will live on in all who knew him. He
will be sorely missed always by all of his family and friends and everyone
he touched in his short lifetime.
Submitted by his wife Cindy
Sharon Springs, NY.