Our Memories
Pam
Dad had a saying: “No association is better than bad association.” I think that protected us from the world.
During the last few months when dad was confined to a hospital bed, he wrote dictated letters to former bible students. One man in particular came on Tuesdays, so dad could study with him. Dad would whisper with his labored breathing, and I would repeat loud so the hard of hearing man could understand dad. Dad told him: “I can’t figure out why I am still alive.” He then told him he believed Jehovah had some more work for him to do with two people in particular, and he was one of them. I thanked my dad for including me in his witnessing because I missed witnessing in English.
Jeff
Growing up with my Dad being the strong spiritual man that he is— has greatly benefited me. He truly inculcated the truth in our minds and hearts.
Our family without question or debate was at every meeting, in service every weekend and studied the Watchtower together every week. Our cars could be covered in several feet of snow outside and he would be clearing them off and warming them up for us to make the meeting or service.
Besides the family study, each of us children had a personal bible study weekly as well—all my older siblings with my Mom but somehow I was the one that got to study with my Dad—me and him alone for my complete childhood and teen years.
Becky
I loved working with my dad in the ministry – and watching his teaching skills. You could see his love and concern for those he taught – and he always came up with the perfect scripture for whatever circumstance. Sometimes we would think he was too blunt or “tough” on his students with his counsel – but they responded – that’s what motivated them – and only he could get away with it.
He was also tireless in visiting and helping sick ones and helping those in the congregation with their problems. It taught us kids to be caring and giving to others.
Arnold’s Little Things
How can we sum up Arnold Howe’s life?
“It’s the little things he did,” reflects his wife.
He had poems and stories, puzzles and jokes.
There are memories in the minds of so many folks.
Laughter surrounded him as he pulled on your arm.
His half-sided grin had so much charm.
His family learned eight cows for a wife you must pay.
And “clear, cool water” must be drawn out in a Southern way.
Long warm baths when he would soak his head,
Allowed opportunity for him to learn the truth instead.
He gave love to 5 children, many grandchildren, and his wife;
And treasured so many more throughout his life.
Teaching survival and safety from his youth
He took those skills and applied them in the truth.
Acronyms he taught made things stick.
“Go Eat Pop Corn” was one little trick.
“Eating Apples Before Meals Greatly Reduces Appetite” was another one.
Learning World Powers became so much fun!
At Kingdom Hall builds, in First Aid he’d be.
He’d pop into hospitals, the sick to see.
And make weekly visits to prisoners to open up the way.
Wal-mart patrons and workers loved what he had to say.
Even when surrounded by doctors, with nurses all around.
His little witnessing moments would abound.
As a Shepherd he took the initiative to help any way he could.
His talks were illustrative, unique, and oh, so good!
Whenever a problem, stress, concern or question arose
Prayer was the first thing he chose.
Whether you called him Arnold, Bud, or Mr. Arnold, for his name
Or Dad, Grandfather, Gramps, Great Uncle, or Brother Howe, he came.
But, his greatest name was made with Jehovah God above.
And we await his resurrection with so much love.