Howard Sorensen, 89, of Sheridan passed away at Memorial Hospital on Tuesday, June 8, 2010.

Howard was born September 9, 1920 in Omaha, NE to Arther and Edith Lawson Sorensen. He grew up on ranch near Newcastle, WY and his family later moved to Sheridan. He graduated from Sheridan High School.

After graduating Howard joined the army and was stationed state side in the last remaining regiment of the army horse cavalry. Later, when the horse cavalry was disbanded Howard served abroad in the Philippines. He was honorably discharged as a sergeant.

After returning to Sheridan, Howard trained as a mechanic and worked at garages. He then worked at Decker Coal as a mechanic for 24 years.

He was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church.

Howard was a devoted husband to his wife Estelle "Essie." They were married May 26, 1963. Essie preceded Howard in death in 2003.

Although Howard and Essie did not have any children together, they befriended many people in Sheridan and beyond, and were deeply loved and appreciated for their warmth and kindheartedness.

Howard had a very close and loving relationship with his sisters Shirley Willet (who preceded him in passing) and Lorraine Husman who lives in Story, WY.

Howard loved the outdoors and hobbies. He deeply appreciated the Bighorn Mountains’ beauty and enjoyed fishing and hunting. Howard enjoyed playing cribbage, and received the exceedingly rare 29 hand a year prior to his death.

Howard will be most remembered for his woodworking. He was a very accomplished woodworker known for producing fine quality furniture and lathe turned bowls. He salvaged most of the wood locally from felled trees. His craftsmanship is still enjoyed by those who own a piece of his work, and is symbolic of his pursuit of quality in all aspects of his life.

Donations to honor Howard Sorensen can be made to the American Cancer Society, 907 Poplar Ave., Casper, WY 82601 or the American Heart Association, 710 2nd Ave., Ste 900, Seattle, WA 98104.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

The Sheridan Press - June 12, 2010.