Howell, George Elliott Quick, extroverted, charming, athletic, and above all, a great sense of humor - we're pretty sure that Bill would absolutely want us laughing with him. We're lucky Bill (George Elliott Howell) lived to 87! With his passion for flying and indifference for rules, the FAA never officially "charged" Bill with emergency landings. So, it's true that he did everything full throttle, mainly because he loved a deal and got the brakes on sale. And despite two (unplanned) emergency landings, he somehow kept his pilot's license and went on to enjoy years of fly-in pheasant hunting and pancake breakfasts in South Dakota with his closest buddies. He was always up for a challenge and with forceful powers of persuasion, people tended to come around to his way of thinking. He had an affinity for projects, regardless of skillset to complete, and he especially relished his partnership with his middle daughter, Anne as they had a successful real estate business that will continue. Bill loved food and he loved to tease, and that combination leaves many memories. We can all recall the countless times we fell for "Do you want to share a soda?" only to turn and find the can empty with a smirk and reply of "What? I wanted the bottom half." One shoulder was always bruised by being tapped at Thanksgiving or at a larger gathering and while looking away, found the last few coveted bites from our plates missing. Bill split his time between Naples, Florida and Eden Prairie, Minnesota and passed away in Naples on Saturday, December 4th, 2021. He was born in Minot, ND on September 10, 1934 and attended Carleton College. Bill served his country as a Lieutenant JG in the Navy, spending time overseas and bringing back stories of the best sticky rice or meat on a stickand a few words in Japanese we never validated. After his discharge, he worked as a stockbroker for many years until he found his calling as an entrepreneur and business owner. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bob, and his sister Katherine "Twink" Larson. He is survived by his wife, Joyce McNab and his daughters, Anne Ballard, Elizabeth and Mary Howell, his stepsons Lance (Stacy) McNab, Kris (Gina) McNab, his granddaughter Alison McNab, nephew JB (Amy) Larson, niece Piper Larson, great-nieces Hattie and Poppy Larson, and many beloved friends. A small private celebration will take place in Minnesota this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating, in George Howell's name, to Vail Place, one of his favorite non-profits where he spent much time volunteering. Donations can be made online at vailplace.org/ supoort/donor-opportunities/ or gifts can be mailed to Vail Place, Director for Development, 23 9th Avenue South Hopkins, MN 55343

Published on December 12, 2021