Howard Joseph Trautman, loving father and grandfather, passed away suddenly in Fernie, BC on Sunday, December 21st at the age of 90 years. Howard was born August 5, 1924 in Culros, ON, the only son for parents Joseph and Ethel.
When Howard married Marie in 1970, the self-proclaimed bachelor became an instant father; welcoming her children from a previous marriage into his life. Howard supported his new and growing family working at an automotive factory in Kitchener. By 1993 the Trautmans settled into retirement, moving West to be closer to their daughter Nancy and her family.
Howard enjoyed cooking and prepared all of the family meals. An armchair referee, Howard cheered on his favorite teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Blue Jays. He also loved hunting, fishing, playing cards and camping; and always looked forward to his birthday at Koocanusa with Dan and Nancy. Wanting to keep busy, Howard liked to work with his hands, fixing small engines, or helping Dan with his latest project.
A devout Catholic, Howard’s unwavering faith comforted him throughout his life. Never one to complain, Howard loved bringing smiles and laughter to those around him with his great sense of humour and his quick wit. He loved his family deeply, and will be forever missed.
Howard is survived by his stepchildren, Bruce (Brenda) Williams and Sandra (George) Barlen; his children, Gary Trautman, Nancy (Daniel) Kurschenska, and Paul Trautman; 12 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren, and his sister Kathleen Maynard as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, 6 sisters: Sister Leona, Elmina, Helen, Agnes, Mary and Rita, his stepdaughter Carol-Ann Braby and son-in-law David Braby, grandchildren Michael, Cynthia-Lou and Cheryl-Lyn Braby, his stepson David Williams, his son Frank Trautman, and on October 30th, his beloved wife Marie.