Howard Lee Abraham

Howard Lee Abraham, 85, of Halsey Oregon, recently passed peacefully on November 1st 2025. Howard was born in Albany, Oregon to Lester Howard and Lilly "Ellen" Davidson Hence Abraham on January 7th 1940.

Howard grew up on the family farm with his younger brother Gene and sister Kae. Life on the farm was demanding and held little time for outside activities, as the family egg business, livestock and grass seed farming occupied most of the family's time. Howard, however, was active in 4-H and also as he got older enjoyed working on cars. Howard was very active in the community growing up and enjoyed playing sports.

Howard graduated high school from Shedd High School in 1958. He enlisted in the Air Force as a Draftsman, shortly following his graduation later that year. He served a tour overseas before being honorably discharged in 1961. He was discharged in California and remained there in search of work. He soon met his first wife Joani Riley and they were married in 1962. The young couple bought a home in Concord California and they soon had children John and Jeanie.

In 1975 Howard was remarried to Sally Holland and lived in Pleasanton, California. They had a daughter Heather a year later. They moved back to Oregon in 1978 and lived in Corvallis. Howard worked at several drafting jobs but most notable was Oregon Freeze-dried in Albany.

Howard remarried again in 1986 to Gill Hyde of Corvallis, Oregon. They had two daughters Katie and Sarah. A few years later he found his final job with Oregon State Correction as an instructor.

Howard once again married his current wife in 1999, Anna Volkers. Howard and Anna soon settled back out on the farm, and he continued to work for the state in Salem. Howard and Anna's family grew, together they accumulated 20 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. Howard finally retired in 2007 from the State after 25 years of service.

Howard was involved in many things and felt a deep connection to his community. He participated in the Odd Fellows organization, helping with fundraising and parades, and most importantly supporting young people in their aspirations of higher education with scholarships. Howard enjoyed his friendships, the church and activities especially in retirement. Howard was always very committed to his family and friends and will be greatly missed.

Services for Howard will be held at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland on December 19th 2025 at 1pm. On the following day December 20th, 2025 at 1pm a Service and Reception at Albany City Church, located at 2418 SE Geary St. Albany OR 97322

If you would like to make a pledge in Howard honor please donate to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.