Howard Erville Overbye, late of Weyburn, SK, passed away September 7, 2017 at the age of 88 years. Howard was predeceased by his parents: Magnus and Martha Overbye; brother Erik Overbye; sister Andrea Rannala; brother-in-law Ray Rannala; father and mother-in-law: William and Mary Duthie. Howard is survived by his wife of 62 years Margaret, Weyburn; daughter Karen Overbye, Calgary, AB; son Mark (Rosemary) Overbye, Lake Alma, SK; grandchildren: Janelle (Drew) Nicholas and family [Andie and Everly]; Evan (Zoey) Overbye and their son Dash; Lukas Overbye, Leah Overbye; sister-in-law Arliss Overbye, Regina, SK; sisters and brothers-in-law: Eleanor (Floyd) McHattie, Gladmar, SK, Irene (Gerry) Kravanya, Weyburn; as well as numerous nephews and nieces. Howard was born on July 19, 1929 on NE 21-01-18-W2. He was raised on the farm along with his younger brother, Erik, and older sister, Andrea. Early days on the farm during the 30’s were filled with chores, riding horses and exploring the vast hills surrounding the farm. Two and a half miles south of the farm was Busy Bee School to which the three would walk, ride horse, or in the winter , take the team and cutter. Sometimes they would stop at the Bendicksons’ to travel with them. Howard tells of the time the children wanted a swimming pool, dug a hole and formed a bucket brigade from the well to fill it. Howard and Erik were involved in sports, such as hockey, hunting, trapping, and cross country skiing, but their love was ball. Howard was the pitcher and Irvin Storle was the catcher. The story goes that he pitched a no-hitter in a tournament in Oungre, a feat almost unheard of at the time. Even in his older years he could throw a mean curve ball, and hit a gopher with a rock. Howard’s love for farming and cattle began at an early age, quitting school in Grade 9 to help his dad on the farm. There was a short leave from the farm in 1952 when Cliff Rassmusen and Howard went to Cranbrook, BC to work as carpenters. But the call of the farm showed his love for cattle, first Shorthorn, then Hereford, and later on Simmental and Angus. He looked forward to calving time, and actually said that he liked fencing! And haying time was enjoyed, especially running his 400 Versatile swather. Howard enjoyed hunting season, especially white tailed deer, but did go with Ray to Squaw Rapids to hunt moose. He would always come home with lots of stories. Howard married Margaret on June 28, 1955. With his dad passing away two days later, the couple moved into the farm to start their life together. The first few years saw no crops, and bills were paid by selling cream. The marriage was blessed with Karen and Mark. In 1967 a new house was built and the 70’s were more prosperous, but the strongest emphasis of his life was his faith. He lived and told of his faith. A Visitation was held Thursday, September 14, at 7:30 p.m. from RD Family Funeral Chapel, Weyburn. A Funeral Service for Howard was held Friday, September 15, at 11:00 a.m. from Zion Lutheran Church, Weyburn, with Pastor Martin Olson officiating. Lunch followed at the Zion Lutheran Church . Interment was at the Blooming Cemetery. Honorary Pallbearers were Howard’s grand-daughters and great grand children. Active Pallbearers were: Evan Overbye, Lukas Overbye, Drew Nicholas, Bruce Kravanya, Aaron Overbye and Rob McHattie. For family and friends so wishing, charitable donations in memory of Howard may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 504 Windsor Street, Weyburn, SK, S4H 0W9, or Parkway Lodge, 420-8th Avenue S, Weyburn, SK, S4H 3N2. Arrangements were entrusted to RD Family Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, Weyburn (306-848-0333 ~ 1-888-848-0333). Expressions of sympathy to the family may be sent to our website at www.rdfamilymemorialchapel.com “Celebrating Life, One Family At A Time”.
