Howard C. Chase

Howard Chase was born in Tonkawa, Oklahoma on August 4, 1925, and started his life in Eddy County, Oklahoma. He was the son of Clyde and Vida Chase. Howard was the older of two children having a younger sister (Dorothy Ann Jones). After High school Howard went to Northern Oklahoma Jr. Collage in Tonkawa Oklahoma where he studied Arts and Science. That is when he met his wife to be, at a church youth group for college students (Ruth Avis Payton). They both shared the interest in music. With other friends, they formed a band while at college. Howard played the Coronet and Ruth played the kettledrums. Ruth studied music at the same college. Howard and Ruth were united in marriage on July 13, 1947 in the Blackwell United Methodist Church. Living in Tonkawa, they had their 1st daughter, Karen. After 7 years they moved to Derby Kansas, near Wichita. In 1958 Howard, Ruth and Karen moved to Denver Colorado. Once again Ruth and Howard had a daughter; Kathy. They lived there for 4 years. Then moved to Alexander, Virginia. After a short 6 months the family moved onto Santa Maria, California for 3 years. In 1969, Howard moved his family back to Lakewood, Colorado where Ruth wanted to be. Howard worked his way up through the 32nd degree of The Masons. Then, he became an El Jebel Shriner. He joined many groups, most recently The Dune buggies and The Jesters. Howard was also a long time member of The Elk's Lodge, #1777 in Lakewood, Colorado. He held many different offices, made many friends and enjoyed the bands, the music and the dancing at the club. He retired from his SBA Job with the Government on December 30, 1988. Howard enjoyed helping and supporting the Children's Shrine Hospital. He was very proud of what the Shrine Hospital could do to help the children in need. Howard Loved to dance, and be around people. He enjoyed growing and caring for his rose garden. He truly had a green thumb. He enjoyed his six grandchildren and his two great grandchildren. Howard has been very blessed in his life, and has been a great blessing to many around him. After Ruth passed away, he had to work hard at being busy and happy, but with all the support of friends and family, he found a lot of happiness and stayed busy when he wanted to and learned how to avoid it if he wasn't up to it. Howard will be missed by all.