Valoree Jane (Johnson, Ouren) Howard

Val was born November 2, 1958, in Pelican Rapids, MN to John and Virginia Johnson. She graduated from Pelican Rapids High School in 1977(the class motto of Go to hell, Go to heaven, we are the class of “77) which she proudly told many times! Val graduated from Moorhead State University with degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice.

Her marriage to Jeff Ouren, brought into this world, in 1982, son Benjamin, who was the light of her life.

She married her soul mate and best friend, Christopher Howard, in 1991. She was his Princess.

Her lifelong dedication to assisting families, abused women and children, developmentally disabled adults and other disadvantaged populations was both remarkable and impactful. She shared her substantial skills to clients in TX, MN, NV and CA.

Val and Christopher retired in 2015 and moved to Panama for 7 years, loving the beach life, where they made new friends from all over the world.

A cancer diagnosis precipitated their move back to the Midwest to be closer to family and friends.

Val loved: travelling w/ Christopher to different parts of the country and the world, camping/RV trips, living on the ocean/beach, entertaining and being around family and friends, hotels, spirited conversations, good food and wine, and a good party. She enjoyed and lived life to the fullest. Val was vivacious, immensely intelligent and made friends everywhere she went because she was genuine and engaging. Her laugh was infectious and her heart true to all. Even cancer could not dampen her zest for life.

Val was a true “WARRIOR” in her battle with cancer, fighting through a number of setbacks, amazing doctors and friends and family with her resolve to continue life. Unfortunately, she succumbed to hateful cancer on 1.16.25. She is finally without pain.

Survived by the love of her life, Christopher; son, Benjamin (Julie) Ouren; mother, Virginia (Duane) Brandt; brother, John (Donna) Johnson and a number of nieces and nephews she adored.

Preceded in death by her father, John; brother, Jeff; grandparents and aunts and uncles whom she loved.

We lost our "groovy chick”, but she will live in our hearts forever!!

Heartfelt thanks to her "team" at Roger Maris Cancer Center and Sanford Medical Center who gave her excellent and loving care.

Per Val's wishes there will not be a funeral but there will be a Celebration of her life held this spring.

If inclined, please make a donation to Breast Cancer Research in Val's memory.