Howard Alvin Eich, age 68, of Helena, MT, died at St. Peter’s Hospital on Friday, June 16, 2023.
Howard was born December 20, 1954 to Paul and Marie (Lovell) Eich, in Long Beach, CA.
He was raised in Seney, Iowa, attending school in Le Mars. He loved his time playing football at Le Mars Community High School, helping his team win the only state football championship for the Bulldogs in 1973. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
He met Liz Bentley, in 1981 at a softball game. Only a couple months later the two were married at St. Paul’s Methodist church. They would have celebrated their 42nd wedding anniversary in August.
He served 40 years in the military. Six years active duty in the Air Force and 34 in the Montana Army National Guard, including a deployment to Iraq from 2004-2005. He retired in 2014 at the rank of Master Sergeant. In retirement, he enjoyed golfing, watching sports, rafting, camping, and spending as much time with his grandkids as he could. He and Liz split their time between Helena, MT and Ligurta, AZ.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Marie; and his father-in-law, Jim.
He is survived by his wife, Liz; their children: P.J. Eich (Jolene), Evelyn Davis (Matt), and Mindy Young (Michael); grandchildren: Azara, Kingston, Aurora, John, Kennedy, Gabriel, Clara, Ellie Jo, Owen, and Ava; and his siblings: Don (Joan), Diane, Paula (Tom), Lori (Tom), and Paul (Becky); his mother-in-law, Evelyn Bentley; and many other close family members and friends.
Memorial services will be held at Fort Harrison Montana State Veterans Cemetery on Friday, June 23, 2023, at 2:00 PM, with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree in his honor, that will last for many years to come.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday June 23, 2023
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Heroes Road
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday June 23, 2023
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Heroes Road
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
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Rick McAlmond says
Liz I’m so sorry to hear of Howie”s passing please know that our prayers are with you during this difficult time Howie was a great person
Tom Carlson says
Liz, I am sorry to hear about Howard, my old neighbor. I’m grateful to have known him and for his service in the National Guard.
Tom and Katie Mahoney says
Liz, our thoughts and prayers to your family. The loss has shaken Howie’s other family (the Hanger crew). He will be missed but his memories will be shared and treasured.
Elaine Applin says
Liz, I am so sorry to hear this. You and your family are in my prayers.
Rich, Susan and John Proul says
Liz and family, our hearts are breaking along with yours. Howard was an amazing person and a true hero to many. There are so many memories..keep them all in your hearts and he will be with you always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May he rest in eternal peace
Jackie Laverdiere says
Liz and Family,
We planted a small bush today in honor of Howard’s life. We are so sorry for your loss.
We enjoyed so many good times with you, Howard and the kids. And let’s not forget Scotland
and Ireland! We will make a slide show sometime this summer and relive our adventures!
Prayers and hugs for you all.
Jackie and Jeff
Jerry Mathews says
Such a positive impact on those around him and on those who knew him. A kind and gentle soul.
ann byrd says
Liz, I am so sorry. Hold all those memories of your too short retirement together
Glenn Millhouse says
Liz and family,
I’ve lost touch over the years but I was shocked and saddened at this news. I enjoyed working with Howie but more so I will remember the camaraderie of fighting over donuts and playing pinochle in the break room at the old AASF and facing “the enemy” together on the fields of Batch! Music can soothe the pangs of loss. I recommend “Keep me in Your Heart” by Warren Zevon. Stay strong and remember him fondly. He has earned it! Please accept my prayers and condolences.
Ben and Terri Norman says
Liz and Family~
Sorry to hear of Howard’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Thad Waples says
Liz, our deepest condolences and prayers for your entire family. Howard was a friend and the world is a lesser place without him.
Terry Thomas & Teri Bingham says
Liz and the entire Eich family, our sincere condolences to the family, So sorry to hear of the passing of Howard. Many memories from Coon nights to lots of car events, Howard will be missed. RIP, so many will miss you !
Micki & Bob Bennett says
Liz & Family,
Bob and I wanted to let you know how saddened we are about Howard’s passing. We had planned on being as the service tomorrow but Bob is still in the hospital in Great Falls. He has had a slight complication after a knee revision on Tuesday. But pleas know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. May many wonderful memories keep Howard close to you always.
With Love,
Micki and Bob Bennett 🙏🏻💕
Nancy Nicholson says
The loss of Howard is a great one. Definitely one of a kind sort of guy. Last time i saw him we were both getting pedicures and had quite a chat. Losts of memories doing car shows. Take care.