James Howell

My family knew Jim as an amazing man, and we are saddened by his loss to you. He was a force and fun; we were friends and architects together. And as you know, Jim, my wife Allison, and I were thrilled to form Riverfront for People with its many good supporters that it led to the Tom McCall Waterfront Park. And then, one weekend, we joined with friends to raise your second-floor roof! Dear Doreen and family, we can believe how special you were to Jim and his planning and service to Portland...

We always were grateful for Jim´s perspective on issues we all cared about: rail transportation in general, rail transit in Portland, and careful planning to assure both services were available and convenient to Oregonians. We regret not running into Jim more often at Cape Meares where we also have a small place. Jim´s legacy of knowledge and strong advocacy will benefit our region for a long time.

Jim´s name was always great for name-dropping among my associates because of my family´s extreme pride in knowing him, and his work with TriMet. Many blessings on your journey of remembrance, of a life well-lived.

Jim was my neighbor at Cape Meares for 30 years. He was always the first to offer help after big storms. His innovations and love of nature defined the community. Jim´s spirit lives on in the Cape, family and friends.

Jim was one of a kind -- and the best kind. I was privileged to participate in causes we both cared about, and his knowledge, judgement, diligence and dedication were simply tops. Please be sure and let me know when and where the memorial gathering will be.