Benjamin F. Howell, Jr., 100, of 1950 Cliffside Drive, State College passed away on Saturday, May 12, 2018 at his residence in Juniper Village from congestive heart failure. He was born on June 12, 1917 in Princeton, New Jersey, the only son of Claire and Benjamin F. Howell, Sr. Ben was a 1939 graduate of Princeton University, and received his Masters and Ph.D. from Cal Tech University, prior to moving to State College in 1949.
Ben retired from Penn State University in 1977 as Associate Dean in the Graduate School and Professor of Geophysics in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences.
In addition to his parents, Ben was preceded in death by his wife, Connie Howell in 1992. He is survived by his three children, Dr. Barbara Raphael of Longboat Key, Florida, Bonnie Garside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Dr. Jim Howell of Dexter, Michigan. He has 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
He was an avid bridge player throughout his life and he was a stamp collector for many years.
He was an inspiration to his family for his passionate views on climate change and family values.
Friends will be received at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College, on Saturday, May 19, 2018 from 3:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Memorial moments will be shared at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 20, 2018 at the University Baptist and Brethren Church, 411 S. Burrowes Street, State College, with the Reverend Bonnie Kline Smeltzer officiating.
Burial will be a private service at Centre County Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to the University Baptist and Brethren Church, 411 S. Burrowes St. State College, Pa 16801 or to Penn State University Graduate Fellowship Endowment Fund, Old Main, University Park, PA, 16802.
Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.