Dan and Amy lived near my family and me for several years in Gilbert, Arizona. Amy and I are cousins and when I first moved to Arizona with my family, I had no idea just how wonderful it would be to have this piece of my family so close to all of us. We were there for each other in all the ways a family can and should be. We tended each others children, we went to the Temple together, we attended baptisms, baby blessings; all the important times we would have loved to have all of our families there, but since that could not be, we were there to support each other. I had been close to Amy and her sisters growing up, but we grew closer than we ever had been those years in Arizona. When Dan and Amy moved to Tucson, our families support of each other didn't end, it just changed a bit. Temple trips were planned way in advance and usually were an over-night event or I got to tend the newest member of the Howells' clan. General Conferences were my favorite. Dan and Amy and all the children would come for the entire weekend. The children would play so well together and we could relax and take in the words of the prophets. It was on these sacred occasions that I had the privilege of getting to know Dan better. We would watch conference while our children played. Then, after the sessions had ended, we would talk together about our thoughts, feelings and impressions of what was said. Dan had many amazing and touching insights. Two of these insights have stayed with me all these years.
The first is when Dan spoke of his feelings about "self esteem". He said that he felt that there is really no such thing as self esteem. That, if you truly believe in Christ and have faith in Him, that you succeed and do well in life because of your faith in Christ, not because of faith in yourself or self esteem. I have pondered this for years and have come to agree, in many ways with this faithful insight. It is my faith in Christ that motivates me in many, if not all, my decisions in life. If I begin to focus on me, I lose sight of what really matters; faith in Christ. It seems to me that what Dan was saying is that self esteem is selfish, worldly and not what the Lord intended. It is truly our "nothingness" that helps us to become worthy of feeling esteem. This nothingness brings us to faith in Christ and as a result, we feel better about ourselves, we're blessed with gifts of the Spirit and thus are more successful in life. I can see how self esteem is a great misnomer indeed. I certainly do not do this subject justice, as Dan could do. I did learn much from this insight and it has been a guide for me when I feel "less than" in the eyes of the world. I think that Dan felt that many of his students could benefit from seeing themselves through the eyes of the Savior instead of the eyes of their peers or the world around them. This is just one of many manifestations of Dan's love for his students, his desire for them to have happy, successful, faith filled lives and Dan's ability to see all of us through spiritual eyes.
The other prophetic insight Dan had was his view of the Second Coming of the Savior. Dan spoke of how there truly is The "Second Coming" when the Savior will come again to the earth and rule and reign. However, there is also a second coming for each of us, personally. That when we leave this earth, we have our own private second coming as we get to meet the Savior face to face and stand before him. Dan spoke of how important it was for him (and all of us) to prepare each day, to stand before the Savior and make that second coming a wonderful, joyous occasion. I know for Dan, that his own private second coming, was as beautiful and joyous as he had hoped.
I love the Howells family. I know that they have all been prepared for the passing of Dan. I know that the Lord loves this family and will bring them peace, joy and roll on the floor, can't stop laughing, kind of happiness.
I feel privileged to know Dan and Amy. I feel blessed to have had them in my home, to serve them and to be served by them. I am so thankful to my Heavenly Father that He put Dan and Amy in my life when He did. That they were able to touch me and my children in such a way that we will never forget nor be the same. I love you Amy, my sister-cousin and I am in awe of the powerful woman of God that you are. I love all of you children. You possess a power of heart and spirit that shines through in all you do, in all you say and in the way you live your lives every day. I pray the choicest of blessings upon all of you and know that the Savior's Atonement will bring you all healing and peace.
Love always,
Jill Clonts :)
Gilbert, Arizona
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Sunday, May 10, 2009
My First Best Friend Ever
Dear Amy and family,
Just wanted to write and tell you how much we love you guys. Seems like many people have been writing about "Dan" but to me he will always be Danny. Many wonderful memories of my childhood where made possible because of Danny. Hardly a day would go by that the two of us didn't have some sort of activity going on at his family's old farm. This little piece of heaven was a virtual wonderland for two young boys. From riding his horse Ginger to chasing chickens...sorry parents if that was wrong. Good friends are hard to come by but Danny was as loyal as they come. I have been going through some of my old cards and have found many thank you cards that simply said "Thanks for being my friend..Love Danny." I also found some old pictures of us from the time we played baseball together and my birthday...don't get jealous about the hats.
I can not wait till I see him again and we can laugh about those wonderful days and great times we had together. Danny is the type of person who makes you want to be a better person yourself. His love for everyone was great because he always loved. This was how he was from the very first time I met my first best friend ever. We love you Amy and kids. What a wonderful family you have. May the Lord bless you always.
Todd Goff
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Strickland family - tucson | 11:46 p.m. March 30, 2009
We love and remember Dan Howells today as a humble man of many gifts and talents. His gentle ways as our Bishop in Tucson will long be remembered. We love the strength and goodness he instilled in our seminary-aged youth through his example and teachings as a CES teacher. How agonizing and sad for us that he is taken on to the other side a bit earlier than we expected, but we know that no departure here is an unexpected arrival there. And we are grateful for the strength of the Gospel teachings that comfort our aching hearts tonight. We miss you, Dan. God be with you till we meet again, and we pray for your special wife and wonderful children that the days and weeks ahead may be filled with the peace of the Spirit and many loving arms and hands to lift and encourage. Amy, please know of our love and prayers in your behalf as we plead to our Father in Heaven that you and your children will feel His strength.
Brad Slentz | 8:32 a.m. March 31, 2009
Dan Howells was a great seminary teacher who helped grow and cultivate my testimony during that time in life when is seems to be questioned the most. He was also a wonderful Bishop who helped me and my family in so many ways. I know that he has touched so many lives and will be sorely missed. Our prayers and love go out to his family at this difficult time.
Jennifer Nicholls Swegle | 9:58 a.m. March 31, 2009
I have very fond memories of Bro. Howells. He was with me all 4 years of high school, became my bishop, then taught at the LDS institute at The University of Arizona where I was attending. I miss his sweet family, but will never forget how they all have touched my life. God bless you Sis. Howells and all your children. What a wonderful man he was! He helped strengthen my testimony and was a welcomed additional father figure in my life. He had great passion for the gospel. Our prayers are with you and your family.
john and chere romney | 11:06 a.m. March 31, 2009
We love the Howells Family. Spence and Ann, Dan's parents have so often spoken so lovingly of him and his outstanding family. Our love goes out to all of your precious family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.. Love John and Chere Romney
Howard Norton | 12:33 p.m. March 31, 2009
One of the really, really good guys in this world. I will miss the times up on the Salmon River with him. He will also be missed by the thousands he has taught in seminary, positions he has held and as a Bishop that he has had such an amazing impact on. Our love to Amy, their wonderful kids and his parents and family.
A great loss to the world, an incredible gain in Heaven! If the Lord was needing help up there, He definitely choose well.
Christopher Summerhays | 12:51 p.m. March 31, 2009
Bro. Howells -
You will always be remembered as a loving, caring person. May God be with your family at this tragic time. You are loved and will be most certainly missed. Thanks for all the great years in seminary, you were great! God be with you 'til we meet again.
Jeffrey Prottas | 2:55 p.m. March 31, 2009
Danny you will be truly missed. Amy, you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers!
Suzanne Bolliger Giblette | 3:27 p.m. March 31, 2009
Oh Amy! My heart and prayers goes out to you at this time of loss. You were always such a strong person and one to quickly help others, now others can show you their strength. Dan was a great guy and always a terrific example. You will be in my thoughts through these next days.
Kristy McRae Witt | 5:02 p.m. March 31, 2009
Words cannot adequately describe the depth of my love and sympathy for Howells and Erekson families. Dan was (and still is) such an amazing guy...so down to earth, and so much fun to be around...such an infectious laugh and smile. Amy is simply incredible, and has been such a beautiful example and such a good friend throughout my life....she has incredible strength, courage and faith. Please know that our thoughts and prayers remain constant with you. May the Lord bless you with comfort and tender mercies continually. I love you.
Bruce and Carol Thompson | 7:34 p.m. March 31, 2009
Oh Amy, we are so sorry for your loss. We love your family. You are in our prayers. I appreciate everything you and Dan have done for us. Let us know if there is anything we can do.
Wade Weston | 11:20 p.m. March 31, 2009
I will always remember Danny's great example of humility, kindness and integrity. I hope he is able to see and comprehend the full measure of his earthly life and what great influence for good he has and will continue to have on this earth.
John & Shawnell Larsen | 12:44 a.m. April 1, 2009
Dan and Amy are the cream of the crop. Fortunately an all-knowing, loving Father who reigns supreme will most assuredly enable Dan to serve to his utmost capabilities as He continuously watches over the family here on earth. We'll greatly miss Dan and all that he was and is.
Randi Vest | 9:59 a.m. April 1, 2009
Dan was my seminary teacher and my bishop through some of the most important years of my life. I went to him for guidance during the rough patches of my adolescence, he was always there eager to listen and to help. He never stopped believing in me even when I stopped believing in myself. I have never met a man that had so much patience and love for the world, as he did. I will miss him! His family is in my prayers.
Nicole DeWitt Boyle | 11:15 a.m. April 1, 2009
Brother Howells was a wonderful seminary teacher. He was loved by everyone. He was a friend at a cross-roads for many. Seeing his picture on the Deseret News brought back so many memories. He always had a smile and always found a way to be upbeat. His love and enthusiasm were contagious. He served so many so well, and we are now all praying for the sweet family he left behind.
Daymon & Suzanne Leonhardt | 9:20 p.m. April 1, 2009
We are just heartsick to lose a friend like Dan. We are going to miss that great man. Amy, we love you and are praying for you and the kids. We wish we could be there to help.
Michelle McLaws Knight | 7:18 a.m. April 2, 2009
I remember Brother Howells as a happy, energetic, wonderful seminary teacher. He influenced so many for good. May his family find peace during this very sad time.
Allan Blankstrom | 11:33 p.m. April 6, 2009
I had the honor of being a neighbor to Dan and Amy and the kids and was welcomed into their home and hearts many times for dinner or for family night. The experience I took with me from their heart and home, their love and attention to me , just a neighbor has and will carry me through life a better man.
This has brought me to my knees humbly. Amy I miss you and offer all the strength I could ever send through the space between us. My eyes are closed and praying for you and the children.
Ian Katzman and Family Phoenix, AZ 1 Apr 1, 2009
Our prayers are with the family.
We love and remember Dan Howells today as a humble man of many gifts and talents. His gentle ways as our Bishop in Tucson will long be remembered. We love the strength and goodness he instilled in our seminary-aged youth through his example and teachings as a CES teacher. How agonizing and sad for us that he is taken on to the other side a bit earlier than we expected, but we know that no departure here is an unexpected arrival there. And we are grateful for the strength of the Gospel teachings that comfort our aching hearts tonight. We miss you, Dan. God be with you till we meet again, and we pray for your special wife and wonderful children that the days and weeks ahead may be filled with the peace of the Spirit and many loving arms and hands to lift and encourage. Amy, please know of our love and prayers in your behalf as we plead to our Father in Heaven that you and your children will feel His strength.
Brad Slentz | 8:32 a.m. March 31, 2009
Dan Howells was a great seminary teacher who helped grow and cultivate my testimony during that time in life when is seems to be questioned the most. He was also a wonderful Bishop who helped me and my family in so many ways. I know that he has touched so many lives and will be sorely missed. Our prayers and love go out to his family at this difficult time.
Jennifer Nicholls Swegle | 9:58 a.m. March 31, 2009
I have very fond memories of Bro. Howells. He was with me all 4 years of high school, became my bishop, then taught at the LDS institute at The University of Arizona where I was attending. I miss his sweet family, but will never forget how they all have touched my life. God bless you Sis. Howells and all your children. What a wonderful man he was! He helped strengthen my testimony and was a welcomed additional father figure in my life. He had great passion for the gospel. Our prayers are with you and your family.
john and chere romney | 11:06 a.m. March 31, 2009
We love the Howells Family. Spence and Ann, Dan's parents have so often spoken so lovingly of him and his outstanding family. Our love goes out to all of your precious family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.. Love John and Chere Romney
Howard Norton | 12:33 p.m. March 31, 2009
One of the really, really good guys in this world. I will miss the times up on the Salmon River with him. He will also be missed by the thousands he has taught in seminary, positions he has held and as a Bishop that he has had such an amazing impact on. Our love to Amy, their wonderful kids and his parents and family.
A great loss to the world, an incredible gain in Heaven! If the Lord was needing help up there, He definitely choose well.
Christopher Summerhays | 12:51 p.m. March 31, 2009
Bro. Howells -
You will always be remembered as a loving, caring person. May God be with your family at this tragic time. You are loved and will be most certainly missed. Thanks for all the great years in seminary, you were great! God be with you 'til we meet again.
Jeffrey Prottas | 2:55 p.m. March 31, 2009
Danny you will be truly missed. Amy, you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers!
Suzanne Bolliger Giblette | 3:27 p.m. March 31, 2009
Oh Amy! My heart and prayers goes out to you at this time of loss. You were always such a strong person and one to quickly help others, now others can show you their strength. Dan was a great guy and always a terrific example. You will be in my thoughts through these next days.
Kristy McRae Witt | 5:02 p.m. March 31, 2009
Words cannot adequately describe the depth of my love and sympathy for Howells and Erekson families. Dan was (and still is) such an amazing guy...so down to earth, and so much fun to be around...such an infectious laugh and smile. Amy is simply incredible, and has been such a beautiful example and such a good friend throughout my life....she has incredible strength, courage and faith. Please know that our thoughts and prayers remain constant with you. May the Lord bless you with comfort and tender mercies continually. I love you.
Bruce and Carol Thompson | 7:34 p.m. March 31, 2009
Oh Amy, we are so sorry for your loss. We love your family. You are in our prayers. I appreciate everything you and Dan have done for us. Let us know if there is anything we can do.
Wade Weston | 11:20 p.m. March 31, 2009
I will always remember Danny's great example of humility, kindness and integrity. I hope he is able to see and comprehend the full measure of his earthly life and what great influence for good he has and will continue to have on this earth.
John & Shawnell Larsen | 12:44 a.m. April 1, 2009
Dan and Amy are the cream of the crop. Fortunately an all-knowing, loving Father who reigns supreme will most assuredly enable Dan to serve to his utmost capabilities as He continuously watches over the family here on earth. We'll greatly miss Dan and all that he was and is.
Randi Vest | 9:59 a.m. April 1, 2009
Dan was my seminary teacher and my bishop through some of the most important years of my life. I went to him for guidance during the rough patches of my adolescence, he was always there eager to listen and to help. He never stopped believing in me even when I stopped believing in myself. I have never met a man that had so much patience and love for the world, as he did. I will miss him! His family is in my prayers.
Nicole DeWitt Boyle | 11:15 a.m. April 1, 2009
Brother Howells was a wonderful seminary teacher. He was loved by everyone. He was a friend at a cross-roads for many. Seeing his picture on the Deseret News brought back so many memories. He always had a smile and always found a way to be upbeat. His love and enthusiasm were contagious. He served so many so well, and we are now all praying for the sweet family he left behind.
Daymon & Suzanne Leonhardt | 9:20 p.m. April 1, 2009
We are just heartsick to lose a friend like Dan. We are going to miss that great man. Amy, we love you and are praying for you and the kids. We wish we could be there to help.
Michelle McLaws Knight | 7:18 a.m. April 2, 2009
I remember Brother Howells as a happy, energetic, wonderful seminary teacher. He influenced so many for good. May his family find peace during this very sad time.
Allan Blankstrom | 11:33 p.m. April 6, 2009
I had the honor of being a neighbor to Dan and Amy and the kids and was welcomed into their home and hearts many times for dinner or for family night. The experience I took with me from their heart and home, their love and attention to me , just a neighbor has and will carry me through life a better man.
This has brought me to my knees humbly. Amy I miss you and offer all the strength I could ever send through the space between us. My eyes are closed and praying for you and the children.
Ian Katzman and Family Phoenix, AZ 1 Apr 1, 2009
Our prayers are with the family.
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