Janice M. (Larson) Howell, 77, a longtime Mt. Vernon resident, passed away at her home Sunday, September 30th, 2012, surrounded by her family.

Janice was born on December 29, 1934, in Everett, Washington to Carsten and Margaret Larson. She was raised in Silvana, Washington and graduated from Arlington High School in 1953.

On June 9, 1956, she was united in marriage to Howard Howell. Together they had three children, Wesley, Carolyn, and Cheryl.

Janice was active in her church and served as the secretary of Salem Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon for over 20 years and sang in the church choir. She loved her family; family was always the heart and soul of her life.

She is survived her husband Howard of Mt. Vernon; her son Pastor Wesley (Linda) Howell of Pullman, Washington; her daughter Carolyn (Tim) Hazen of Buckley, Washington; and Cheryl (Dave) Porter of Snohomish, Washington; her brothers Larry Larson (Jackie) of Wisconsin; Mike (Norrine) Larson of Arlington; and her sister Karen (Chuck) Pyron of Arco, Idaho; and six grandchildren: Anna, Kirsten, and Karl Howell; Joseph Hazen; Ryan (Suzi) Rivas; and Elisha (Joel) Casparek; and 3 great-grandchildren: Samantha Rivas, Ryan Rivas, and Thomas Casparek.

A memorial celebration of her life was held today, Wednesday, October 10 , 2012, at 2:00 P.M. at Salem Lutheran Church (2529 N. LaVenture Road) in Mt. Vernon. Memorials may be sent to Hospice Northwest, 819 S 13th St, Mount Vernon, WA 98274; or to Salem Lutheran Church, or a charity of your choice.

You may share your memories of Janice, and sign her online guest registry at www.kernfuneralhome.com Arrangements are under the care of Kern Funeral Home.