Howard Birlew

Howard Leslie Birlew (86) went to heaven to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 6, 2022. He was the husband of the late Rachel Birlew. They shared 50 years of marriage together.

Howard was born in Pasadena, CA to Paul and Ethel Birlew. He had one brother, Gordan. In January of 2018, he was preceded in death by his loving wife Rachel. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his brother.

Howard lived his remaining years at Alder House, an assisted living facility in Arroyo Grande, CA. He and Rachel never had any children of their own, but they loved all children in their lives as their own.

After completing his undergraduate degree at Cal State Long Beach, with a degree in Civil Engineering he went on to complete a one-year Bible graduate course. He eventually became the Grover City’s Public Works Superintendent and City Engineer.

He met Rachel in a Bible Study he was leading in Pasadena, and they married June 15, 1968, after he spent two years in Ecuador, South America with Wycliff Bible Translators. After they married, they both returned to Ecuador serving the Indian tribes of Jivaro Quichua, Cayapa and Auca. They then returned to California to pursue their careers, finally settling in Grover Beach where they lived for over 45 years. They were both active members of Grace Bible Church in Arroyo Grande, CA where he sang in the choir and lead Bible studies. He will be missed by many friends and family members.

The memorial service was held on Saturday June 25, 2022, at 10:30 am at Grace Bible Church, Arroyo Grande, CA. Donations can be made to the Deacon fund of Grace Bible Church in lieu of flowers.

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