Philip Sheridan Howard

Cherished son, beloved brother, uncle and friend, Philip Sheridan Howard, 57, died suddenly Aug. 9 while canoeing and camping along the Pend Oreille River.

Born Aug. 1, 1948, in Seattle, Phil was a lifetime resident of the Seattle area. He was a graduate of the University of Washington majoring in technical theatre arts, and served as technical director at Seattle University. Following that he spent his professional career backstage among venues including Seattle Repertory Theatre, Seattle Opera House, Pacific Northwest Ballet, the Kingdome and Safeco Field. Phil was a senior member of IATSE Local 15, and enjoyed longtime friendships with his work associates, who considered themselves his extended family.

Phil acquired a commercial balloon pilot license and conducted flights around the Pacific Northwest. After retiring his balloon, he continued his adventures and safari'd and camped in many foreign countries. Phil became a "spiritual advisor" to Polson's live theater company, the Port Polson Players during his many visits to Montana, another place he loved.

Survivors include his mother, Margaret "Peggy" Howard of Bellevue, Wash.; brother Jeff (Thuan) of Redmond, Wash.; sister Carmine Mowbray, nieces Hilary Mowbray Lozar, (Mike); Karelia and Merilee Mowbray, all of Polson, and nephew Nolan Mowbray of Bozeman.

Services will be at Overlake Park Presbyterian Church, 1836 152nd Ave. N.E. Bellevue on Saturday, Aug. 27, at 1 p.m. Sharing of memories and fellowship will follow at the lounge at Silver Glen, 1782 152nd Ave. NE, Bellevue.

The family suggests local memorials may be made to Mission Valley Friends of the Arts, P.O. Box 1156, Polson, MT 59860.