WINDOW ROCK, AZ – The 25th Navajo Nation Council has announced the passing of former Navajo Nation Council Delegate Freddie Howard at the age of 76. Delegate Howard was born in Ganado and was Tł’ízí lání (Many Goats). He was first elected as a Council Delegate in 1979, representing the community of Tolani Lake.
“The 25th Navajo Nation Council thanks the family of former Council Delegate Freddie Howard for selflessly sharing his life with the Navajo Nation, to serve the Nation and better the lives of those who lived in the communities he represented,” said Navajo Nation Speaker Crystalyne Curley. “We send our prayers and condolences to the family at this time.”
Howard was a veteran of the U.S. Army, served as the Tolani Lake Chapter President, and also worked for the Navajo Nation Division of Community Development. He is survived by four children and his wife, Dorothy.
“We honor Mr. Howard for his contributions to our Nation and we pray for strength and comfort for his family, friends, and former colleagues,” said Council Delegate Casey Allen Johnson, who currently represents the Tolani Lake community as a member of the 25th Navajo Nation Council.
Howard’s son Lionel said his father was an advocate of education and building opportunities for the younger generations. “He was a loving father and took care of us all,” said Lionel.