Howard Birchfield Jr

Howard Andrew Birchfield Jr., 89, passed away in Billings, MT, on March 16, 2024.

Howard was born on August 24, 1934, in Deming, New Mexico to parents Howard Andrew Birchfield Sr. and Dena Boumann. He grew up in Wickenburg, Arizona, out on the Hassayampa River.

Howard served in the Army during the Korean War from January 8, 1957 – September 26, 1957. When Howard returned home, he worked in ranching and mining.

Howard's marriage in 1964, was to Mary Kay Dovalosky, and despite their separation, they remained lifelong friends. Howard's next marriage was to Mary M. Ostrum, on September 6, 1977, at The Little Church of the West in Las Vegas. They remained married until her passing.

Howard was preceded in death by his mother, father, and five sisters: Jane, Vivian, Midge, Mary Ellen, Betty, and also a special friend Doris Waddell of Billings.

Howard is survived by his son Steve (Christine) Birchfield, sister Florence Louise Langston (Casa Grande, AZ), nephews Clayton (Noreen) Langston and Willard (Julie) Myers, Cousin Deanna Stamps, and great nephew Willard Jr. (Kristie) Myers who had cared for Howard the last three years of his life. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.