William “Bill” Howard  of Innisfail passed away peacefully at the Red Deer Hospice Society with his loving family by his side at 5:00 a.m. on May 5, 2026, at the age of 73 years.

Bill was born in Innisfail in 1952 and spent much of his childhood on the family farm, where he was raised by his parents, Gordon and Muriel Howard. Bill attended Innisfail High School, where he met the love of his life, Marilyn Palkot. He asked Marilyn to be his bride on her graduation night, and together they built a wonderful life and raised three children: Chad Howard (Tina), Kristi Fisher (Curtis), and Kelsey Frank (Savannah). Bill was a proud grandfather to Hope, Bradley, Diesel, Nixon, Octavia, Trinity, Addalyn, Shylah, and Michelle who all miss him deeply. Bill will be remembered by his siblings Lorne, Kathy, and Marylou; their partners and his nieces and nephews.

Bill built a home next to his parents’ house and eventually took over the family farm. Hard work was no stranger to Bill as he worked the land, tended to the animals, and still made time for family and friends. He was one of the hardest-working men many had ever known. Bill was an important part of the farming community and an outstanding neighbour. Whether someone needed a push or pull in a snowstorm, help with cattle, or simply a visit and a warm cup of coffee, Bill was the kind of man who would show up anytime someone needed a hand. Known as a hunter, fisherman, woodworker, and collector of prairie artifacts, Bill was always busy creating, building, and discovering treasures. Animals often found their way home with him and became part of the family, creating unforgettable memories for his children growing up. Whether it was a baby deer, a duck, a rabbit, or another creature in need, Bill always had a soft spot for rescuing and caring for animals.

Although farming was a large part of his identity, Bill deeply loved the mountains and the quiet beauty of nature.

Often, Bill would go to his cabin in the mountains. Before leaving, he would write precious notes to his wife and children, and sometimes he would return home with new ones after spending time reflecting in the quiet of God’s country. In these notes, he often wrote about the peaceful nights and the sound of wolves howling in the distance. Those moments brought solitude and reflection, reminding him of all he was thankful for – especially his family. Although Bill may have struggled at times to express his emotions through words spoken aloud, he always found a way to make sure his family knew how deeply they were loved through his writing. Those notes remain cherished by the family to this day. Besides the prairies and the mountains, Hawaii was one of his favourite places to visit.

Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Bill knew that laughter followed him wherever he went. He had a gift for lighting up a room with jokes, witty comments, and spirited opinions. Even in his final days, he continued finding ways to make those around him laugh.

Bill was surrounded by love until his final moments. Live music, a special song from his granddaughter, a family barbecue, art, stories, and compassionate care filled his last days with peace and meaning. Shortly after his passing, the family received what they felt was a beautiful sign from God at the door of his hospice room: a deer, a crow, and a rabbit – a deeply personal and meaningful confirmation of his peaceful passing into the arms of the Heavenly Father.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, a private celebration of life held at a later date.

If desired, Memorial Donations may be made in Bill’s name to the Red Deer Hospice Society at www.reddeerhospice.com/donate., whose staff made the final week of Bill’s life as peaceful and beautiful as the family could have hoped for.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta. Phone: 403.227.0006

• Date : 2026-05-20
• Location : Heartland Funeral Services (Innisfail) www.heartlandfuneralservices.com 403.227.0006