On July 22, 2011, Robert Howard, Ana-Maria Dias, and their children Sam and Veronica, were killed in a car accident in Canada. Information and updates will be posted as they become available.
Robert and Ana-Maria
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
I am devastated. Their family was a gift to our community. – Jennifer Mutz
I am just so sad about this. Ana-Maria’s positive attitude, energy, sense of inquiry, and dedication were amazing and inspiring to witness. I was so excited that she was hleping with PiE at JLS–she was WONDERFUL. I will really miss her.
I am heartsick about this tragedy. Ana-Maria was one of the most creative, upbeat, positive people I have ever had the pleasure to know; her energy and ideas were endless. Her countless hours volunteering at El Carmelo for every possible activity/position made that school community an amazing place. I knew her as a dedicated mom and a dear friend who would make time to listen and do anything to help. May the memory of this family be a blessing to us all.
We are very saddened by this loss of our friends. We will miss them terribly, their service to our schools and community, and their cheerful and positive lives.
We are deeply saddened by this loss of our friends. We will miss them terribly, their great service to our schools and community, and their cheerful and positive lives.
This is devastating. They were our wonderful friends and neighbors. We will miss them so much in so many ways. Our street, our schools and our whole community just can’t be the same without them.
What a loss to our community – Ana-Maria gave so much to JLS and El Carmelo. It is such a devastating loss to our Palo Alto community.
This is such a tragic loss. I want to always feel inspired by Ana-Maria’s energy and enthusiasm as a friend, a mother, an organizer, a volunteer. She was tireless, and so positive.
This is indeed very sad, sad news. Having known Robert in Middle school , it had been a pleasure to reconnect with him later in life. Ana Maria was a tireless community member who’s efforts improved the lives of children and parents as well. Samantha was a bright and optimistic classmate of our son Gabriel.
Our hearts go out to the other members of the extended Howard family, including John, Cindy, Amanda, Laurel and Gwen.
Our family is in shock, We can’t believe that such a wonderful, giving and careing family as been taken from us. Our community is deeply sadden and our school has suffered a huge lost. Our family is praying for all family and friends of the Howard’s. Words can not be found as too how stress the willingness of Ana-Maria’s devotion and dedication to EL Carmelo… I will miss her so so much and how much she offered to our school along with her friendly beautiful face. I will forever remember making crafts with her and Veronica at school and at her home. She was also so welcoming to me and Marion. All our love and prayers… The Rehbock Family…John , Dee, and Marion…
This is such a sad and devastating loss. The Howard family touched the lives of our community in so many ways.
Robert – we will miss your energy, enthusiasm and ideas.
Ana-Maria – I will miss my dear friend. You give so much to everyone around you – for your school, your family and your friends. Your tireless commitment, creativity and passion are a continual inspiration.
Sam and Nica – your spirit, smile and love of life will always be with us.
Receiving the news was unreal. It’s hard to accept that a family could disappear instantly.
They all had such great energy and enthusiasm.
RIP.
Dave
Last summer I had a great night out with Robert where he
was my treehouse design and building technique consultant.
Over a wee drink or two he drew up some great sketchs on, well, cocktail napkins, and this helped out on the construction. Some of the “CAD” pictures here note his influence…
https://picasaweb.google.com/david.spencerian/Treehouse
I viewed your pictures and I am very impressed. I would consider doing something like this for my niece’s children. Thanks for the pictures and thanks to the Lord for Robert’s help too… God Bless you all as you mourn your friends. We are praying for the family of Robert and Ava-Maria, and for you, their friends.
Blessings, Krista in Ontario, Canada
We are really saddened by the loss. Ana-Maria, Robert, Sam and Nica were first El Carmelo family we met walking, first day of our daughter’s kindergarten. Such a friendly family, who introduced themselves on the way. Ana Maria was such a friendly person, always greeted us by name, meticulous organizing events, warm
hearted, made sure to include people. Will always remember them.
It is so sad to hear this news. Cannot believe it! Rober, Ana Maria, Sam and Nica, we will miss you.
I still can’t believe that they are gone. I enjoyed getting to know Ana-Maria over the years. I will always remember her for her passion, dedication, creativity and can do attitude. She and her family will be missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends.
Louise Valente
Cindy,
I am so sorry for your loss. What a terrible, terrible tragedy. My condolences to you and your family.
Anita Backus Chang
I am so, so saddened to hear about the loss of this wonderful family. Our hearts, schools and community will forever be touched by their smiles, grace and generosity.
Words cannot begin to express the shock and sadness for this terrible loss of a wonderful family that we were privileged to know for too short a time.
We are so sad to hear of this tragic loss for our community and their family. Ana-Maria had such a wonderful spirit – I was only just getting to know her, but counted her as a friend. We will miss them very much.
We are so devastated about this news! We cannot believe this! We were so happy when we hung out with them. I remembered one time, they were all camping up at Johnsville with their makeshift RV, and we own a house right near there, well Ana-Maria was driving by and she recognized my monster suburban, and didn’t know we had a place up there, and she took a chance and knocked on the door, and I was surprised when I opened the door to see her there. She and Robert and the kids all came out of the freezing rain and we had spaghetti and wine and built a fire, and really had a great time til late in the evening, I am so glad we were able to spend that time with such great people, they will be sorely missed!! Our condolences nothing will ever replace them, we are so sorry.
That’s a great story Matt
I met Ana Maria and Robert in Johnsville when Matt and I invited them in out of the rain to share a meal. We had a great time that evening the kids playing board games and we talked around the fire. I told Ana Maria that I wanted to climb Eureka Peak the next day but that I didn’t want to do it alone. She quickly said that she would love to join me. The next day she showed up at my door early with hiking boots ready to go! I gave her an extra pair of gators to put on her lower legs to keep the snow out and we set off! This was an adventure climbing a mountain where the snow covered the trail so completely that we were hking by my memory. She totally trusted me and we continued to climb up the mountain in the snow. Ana Maria loved every minute of this hike, we perservered and made it to the top! I have had these pictures to give to her for three years and I never had the opportunity. So, I want to share them with all of you……
http://www.simisonproperties.com/anamaria/index.html
Words can’t express how sad we are to hear of such a tragic loss. We’ll always remember Ana-Maria’s devotion to El Carmelo, her bright smiles, and the warmth she spread to everyone she met. We’ll miss you, Ana Maria, Robert, Sam and Nica.
This is hard to believe that this so important family in our community is gone! It will let an enormous feeling of emptiness in El Carmelo. My thoughts are going to their family and the very difficult grief they have to live with now.
I remember Robert’s great sense of humor when we did a little workshop during a
science fair last year!
I also remember how much Ana Maria helped us sharing all she has built for El Carmelo International fair and many precious advices too.
Both of them were so committed to our community! What a loss!
I hope they knew how much everybody is grateful for all they have done and we will miss them a lot.
Blandine Chaperot-Merino
Words can’t express how sad we are to hear of such a tragic loss. We’ll always remember Ana-Maria’s devotion to El Carmelo, her bright smiles, and the warmth she spread to everyone she met. We’ll miss you, Ana Maria, Robert, Sam and Nica
We knew this wonderful family years ago through PreSchool family and cherished their presence in the Palo Alto Community. Our hearts are sick with this tragedy.
I too am so sad to learn of this. Ana-Maria was a wonderful, generous person who I always felt fortunate to know and work with. I met her children a few times when she brought them to work and they were so wonderful in every way. I’ll really miss her as I’m sure everyone will that knew her.
Such tragic and devastating news… we are deeply saddened. Words cannot express the tragic loss of this wonderful family. Robert, Ana-Maria, Sam and Nica, we will miss you! Our condolences to the extended family.
This is very sad. The Howards were heroes of El Carmelo, giving so much service with enthusiasm and vision. I loved having Nica in my class, with Robert and Ana Maria volunteering weekly. They will be missed, and always fondly remembered..
Robert was an amazing engineer and beloved leader in his role as vice president of engineering at Lunar. We were so fortunate to have his brilliance, wit and humanity for the past 15 years and also the joyful presence of Ana-Maria, Sam and Nica who also shared their lives with us. They were such an important part of the Lunar family and this news is devastatingly sad for us. Robert and his family’s influence was profoundly valuable, always positive and will last forever. We will keep their memory alive and near and dear in our hearts…always.
Dear friends
Words can not express how I felt when Mary told me about this tragedy.
Ana Maria was my best friend fron elementary school from Nova Lisboa (now Huambo), Colegio do Sao Jose do Coloney in Angola.
Afte the civil war and the refugee camps, I found myself in the same country as Ana.
Our lives were alwayas at diferent points. I was raising my three boys, Ana was studing and concentrating in her career.
Ana found her love, Robert, had her precious girls Sam and Nica.
I was sending mine to college….
I will be a grandmother in October, my best childhood friend will not be one!!!
There is only love in all of our hearts that had the previledge of knowing you.
With all my love
Manela
I ‘m very very Saad losing Ana Maria and here they were such warm heart people, what A tragedy. I will miss Ana Maria very bad I can’t stop crying.
We love you Ana Maria
Faiza Zarroug
I am so sorry to hear about this devastating loss. I knew the Howard family from preschool days, and they were an amazing, loving family, full of energy, understanding, and creativity. They touched many lives in Palo Alto and will be sorely missed.
We are so sad and shocked to hear this tragic news. One of many things that Emily will always remember is making gifts at the holiday workshop and other crafts that were for the benefit of the auction led by Ana-Maria. We will miss this wonderful family.
We are so sad with this loss. We will miss them on the walk to El Carmelo and the seeing them in our community and neighborhood. They were such a nice family.
Let us all celebrate the lives of Robert, Ana Maria, Nica, and Sam. Otherwise, nothing makes sense. Tell your loved ones that you love them… any time… all the time.
Fabia
Palo Alto High School, Class of 1980
Such sad news. My deepest condolences.
I worked with Robert for years and learned much from this great man. I’ll miss him.
I just read this heartbreaking news here in Canada, and as a complete stranger, my heart and thoughts go out to everyone who knew this seemingly wonderful family.
How kind was this family? Several weeks ago, I went on vacation with my family, and our dog, Charlie, stayed behind with a house-sitter. After a few days, a dear friend reported that Charlie was seeming a bit lonesome, and she said that Ana-Maria and her family had offered to take Charlie for the remainder of our vacation. Knowing Ana-Maria,Robert,Samantha and Nica, I knew that Charlie would be extremely well-cared for and LOVED… so without hesitation, I immediately said yes. “When would they like to take him?” I asked. “Right now!” And so began Charlie’s best week ever, filled with hugs, snuggles, dog treats, neighborhood walks, car rides, and the dear kindness of a family not just offering a safe shelter, but their hearts and home. Ana-Maria took the time to me several emails during that week with tender, sweet Charlie updates; he liked sleeping in their beds, he liked getting up at 7:30am, which she said was nice and convenient for their family schedule. We came home late on July 16, and Charlie was waiting for us. Ana-Maria had dropped him off earlier that day and they were getting ready to head off of their camping trip. That night, I found a note on our kitchen counter, “Thank you for letting us have Charlie for the week. We loved him! Maria, Robert, Sam, Nica :)”
How many people write a thank you note after they take care of your pet?! This family did. I had told Ana-Maria in an email that once they returned, Charlie would be adding Emerson Street to his constitutional loop, so that he could see them. I was looking forward to seeing how excited I knew he would be. And I was looking forward to thanking them in person for their incredible kindness. Tonight, I walked over with Charlie and when we turned on their street, Charlie picked up his pace. He knew where he was and where he wanted to be, with his new favorite family. Charlie quickly went right to their front door, stared at the door, then looked up at me, then stared back at the door. He wanted in. He wanted to see them. And I did too. I know there are so many people who are tremendously upset right now, for the deep loss of these four tremendous individuals, and for the unthinkable loss of this dear family. To the parents of Nica and Sam’s many friends… I know it is shattering to think about how to explain this kind of shocking loss. We want to protect children from this kind of pain. The only thing I know is that it hurts this much because we loved and love them so much. When a person dies, what doesn’t die is the love that we feel for them. I’m grateful for every moment with Ana-Maria, Robert, Sam and Nica. Charlie was lucky to have his special time with them–and all of us were very lucky too, for every moment. Sending much love to the heavens above, and to all those in pain and sorrow now.
amazing story. my wife, son, our dog and I are new to the area, but this is exactly why we love living here. Beautiful story you shared. My condolences to everyone affected by this tragedy… and I’m from BC so this hurts me a lot.
Carrie M., you are a treasure for sharing this lovely story about our beloved friends. Thank you. We will dearly miss Ana-Maria, Robert, Sam and Nica. My heart aches with pain that such a special, selfless, lovely lovely family is gone. I have so many dear memories of Ana-Maria, Robert and her girls from El Carmelo. I can’t even begin to recount all the big and small moments: walking to school, volunteering together, socializing, our daughters in art classes and theatre performances together, seeing each other around the neighborhood, etc. Ana-Maria was a community service heroine. And when I was volunteering for our school, who left me notes of encouragement or flowers for support? Ana-Maria of course. Our family was blessed to know them. My deepest sympathies to both their families. Jennifer Mutz (and Andy, Sam and Hannah who are also grieving)
It is hard to believe that such a wonderful family will no longer be with us. Robert and Ana Maria were both such kind, giving, gracious people, and their daughters were such beautiful, sweet girls. Our hearts are filled with sadness. We send our love to their families. Kristine and Javad
This is so sad. I am devastated by news of this horrible tragedy. Ana-Maria was a beautiful person … and what a wonderful family. I will miss her energy, ideas and enthusiasm.
What a blessing this family was — with their generous commitment to our schools and families and their love of nature that inspired all. The hurt we all share today is a heart-felt reaction to the love they shared with our community. In doing so, they made us all better for it. Who will ever forget Ana-Maria’s year as PTA President and her creative work as Auction Chair at El Carmelo. My daughter thinks fondly of the art classes she created on Wednesdays in December. Robert’s great auction items were amazing including fun baskets and off road adventures. And, as a Paly grad and lifelong community member he always had warm stories and a warm smile. The girls were just as sweet. And, in their passing, we are reminded of the beauty of family, simplicity, and service. May we all be inspired by their life’s work and the joy they brought to others. May we remember to say thank you more often. All my love to the family — please let us know how we can help. In celebration of lives well lived, Megan Swezey Fogarty
What a tragedy. Robert & Ana-Maria are so friendly, kind, and genuine. It was always a pleasure to see them. Miranda thought Nica was so nice & creative, and always enjoyed being with her. My young boys adored Sam — for the past 3 years she has kept them happily busy during soccer practices and games. They will miss “My friend Sam.”
A couple weeks ago I saw Robert, Ana-Maria, Sam, & Nica taking an evening walk in the neighborhood. I always admired how much they enjoyed spending time together. And that will be my permanent memory of them — walking side by side, hand in hand, together as a family.
Our hearts our with their families. What a tremendous loss.
Our hearts go out to the entire Howard family. May their memories be a blessing to you.
I got to know Ana-Maria when Nica and my son were in Preschool Family. We would run into one another around town a few times a year and it was always so nice to hear how she and the girls were doing and of their family activities. The loss of this family is so tragic and our hearts go out to their extended family and community of friends.
We were totally shocked by this news. Our hearts and prayers go out to the entire Howard family. Ana Maria’s greetings were our first introduction to the El Carmelo community. She has done so much for the school!
We are so shocked and saddened by such a great loss. We knew Nica, Ana-Maria and Robert from the Young Fives program. I remember especially how energetic, friendly and funny Ana-Maria always was. Working with her every week was such a treat. Nica was such a joy to spend time with as well – kind, bright and very artistic. I got such a strong sense of what strong, loving and supportive parents Ana-Maria and Robert were. All our best to all of their family and friends. Cindy – we are especially thinking of you (Annelise had you as a teacher in Preschool family).
Tina Hendrickson and Niels Smaby
I didn’t know Robert and Ana well, or their children, but as an El Carmelo parent, I know many of you. My wife Evi and I send condolences to everyone who’s hurting tonight. Our hearts are heavy with this loss.
I am also a sranger from Canada (BC). I heard the ages of the children on the local news tonight and felt this horrific loss deeply as my own cihildren are the same age. I’m glad I found this site – I’ve read all your kind and heartfelt words about this family. I think they would be honoured to be remembered this way. I’m so sorry for Palo Alto’s loss.
Coann slept with her tears tonight. She kept asking me, mommy, am I not seeing Nica anymore? I really wish I could tell her, it is just a dream…..
Dear Ana-Maria, I’ll miss you forever. I always enjoy talking to you and admire your creative ideas and all your efforts for helping the school and community.
May you all rest in peace and still holding each other’s hands in heaven.
Love you.
Sad and shocking news. Ana- Maria was such a positive person, helping out the El Carmelo and JLS community in innumerable ways, she touched the lives of everyone who met her. My older son too remembers Sam and is so saddened. We all are feeling this terrible loss, which cannot be described in words .
Our heartfelt condolences for the family and friends. Hope you find the strength to cope with this extremely difficult time.
I first met Ana-Maria and her sister Mary years ago. I had never met Ana-Maria’s husband or children, but I am devastated by the news. Ana-Maria was one of those people that you knew was special. Mary, I am so sorry for your loss. Wendy, I know Ana-Maria was your best friend and I physically hurt for you and Mary. If there is anything I can ever do… all you have to do is ask. I love you both. Jim
The Howards were a warm and caring family who touched the lives of all who knew them. What a sad and tragic loss to our neighborhood and community. Our condolences to the extended family.
I am terribly upset with this news, like everyone who left comments. Can’t imagine what the family and closer friends are going through. Just want to pay tribute as one of many who were touched by Robert’s vibrant personality. Will miss him deeply. Heartfelt condolences.
I did not know these people, but my condolences go out to their extended family. No one should have to go through such a tragic loss. I am from Canada, and it is a beautiful country and accidents do happen. I feel for the family and the driver who hit them. What he must be going through himself, having to live with this for the rest of hs life cannot be easy. My they rest in peace, god be with them.
I knew Robert professionally through my work with Lunar Designs over the years. I saw his picture underneath the startling and dismaying headline. I feel shock and “can this be true?” for someone so alive and in-the-moment? A more genuine and friendly person is hard to imagine. My condolences to family, friends, and Lunar Design. This is a hard loss.
hearing of this tragedy has touched our family
we heard of this news while travelling ourselves
our deepest sympathies go out to everyone involved
the browns from canada
I am completely heartbroken about this tragedy. As a former member of the Lunar family, I remember when Robert joined and what a warm, funny and incredibly brilliant person and engineer he was. I also remember when he and Ana-Maria started dating, and talking babies when they got pregnant each time with the girls, roughly a year each after my own children. The saddest thing is not having talked to them or seen them in several years. You always think there will be more time – time to have lunch or drinks, time to talk and keep in touch. We have truly lost some very special people, and I am deeply saddened.
We, too, are stunned and numb with grief. We offer heartfelt condolences.
Ana Maria was my antiques and craft-making buddy from the days of Preschool Family. We would scour flea markets and garage sales, drag slightly imperfect treasures home, then lovingly fix them up. Sometimes, Robert would help, because he had everything under the sun in his toolboxes. We would say something like: “I wish there were a thingy that would make grooves in fabric, like corrugated cardboard,” and Robert would say: “Oh, I have one—let me get it!” Then the three of us would work together, inevitably discussing books, books, books. Robert once laughed and said: “I don’t have time to read all of the books I want to read, so I read book reviews, instead, so I can keep up.” Ana Maria answered: “At least you have time for the reviews!” I loved the way they joked together like that.
Ana Maria and I spent countless hours like this: gluing, sanding, painting, etc., and talking non-stop all the while. We loved when my daughter would have playdates with Nica and Sam, or when they were in CMT together, because then we would get to have “mom playdates,” too: a few more hours to glue and sand and talk!
The Dias-Howard house—like ours—was chock-full of art projects, refurbished appliances, repurposed gizmos… Like a general store: all kinds of groovy, fascinating things on the shelves and pinned to the walls. When we first met years ago, Ana Maria’s favorite finds were a retro hair-dryer salon chair that she reupholstered in red velvet, and a 1970s school desk and chair that she set up in the kitchen, so the girls could do their homework by the window. Although there were hundreds of flea market items in their house since then, those are the two that I think of now with tears in my eyes.
Ana Maria also had one storage room in the house that she never let me see, because it was literally filled to the rafters with works-in-progress. I insisted many times, but she said no. I even showed her my “Miss Havisham’s” garage, but she said it was nothing, in comparison. Although both of us were serious Packrats with a capital P, this one room was, as Ana Maria said: “Even too much for you to see, Heidi. I’m embarrassed. It would damage our friendship!”
I’m telling you now, Ana Maria, that you were one of the most alive, interesting, creative people I’ve met. I enjoyed your company so, and your humor, and loved the way you and Robert allowed for each other’s wonderful foibles, and how you were bringing up your amazing, delightful girls. Nothing ever would have damaged our friendship. Nothing.
May all of you rest, together, in peace.
We are still in shock about this. We have literally been crying for 24 hours. We loved this family so much — one of our best friends, not only with the parents but also the children. Our kids grew up together, having met in pre-school, and just recently Jolie and Sam did theater together with Ana-Maria and Suman carpooling the kids every day and spending literally an hour with each other every day after the camp. Ana-Maria was planning to have all the kids from the Kiyas, Kooners and Kemps over to do a campout in their backyard when the Howards got back from this trip. 1/4 of the adults’ lives were with each other and the entirity of our kids lives were with them in such an intricate and interwoven manner. We just can go on and on re: all the things we did together, and what lovely children and people the Howards were, how kind they were, what amazing and funny personalities, how they gave to the community, how generous they were with our family and others, and what true friends, etc. I am so serious when I say they were the truest of friends. There is a massive hole in our hearts that we don’t know it can be fully healed.. We know so many others share our pain and the pain that the family is having. We wish so much it were not so. We were expecting to have our families grow old together and share the joys of our kids going to high school, college and then the kids getting married and having grandchildren, and have that joy shared for decades and decades. It is hard to say more without crying.
Much love to all, and hopefully this will remind us to cherish our friends and loved ones, and every day strive to be like the Howards and spread joy and kindness.
Robert, Ana-Maria, Sam and Nica – We Miss You So Much
So much love,
Tom, Suman, Jolie, Griffin and Ella
My deepest heartfelt sympathies to the living families of both Ana Maria and Robert and many prayers for them and their children – terrible tragedy…Paula in Ottawa
My deepest heartfelt sympathies to the living families of both Ana Maria and Robert. Many prayers for them and their children – terrible tragedy… Ottawa
Ron, Cindy, John, Kim, Tim, and David,
I am so sad to hear of the loss of Robert and his family. It seems impossible that this can happen. I will always remember Robert as someone who taught me a lot about kindness and gentleness.
Much love to you all.
Sue
Our thoughts and prayers are going to Howards relatives – it is such a heartbreaking news… Losing one soul is a tragedy, and loosing the entire family is totally devastating. We are deeply sad about this tragic event and are praying for all of you; no words can fill the emptiness.
May all of you rest in peace.
We are devastated by this terrible tradegy. Ana Marie and Robert were the most generous and friendly people and they will be missed tremendously.
John and Cindy,
We are so saddened to hear of this tragic accident. Blessings to you while you live through painful loss. I have been thinking of you all day, and will continue to pray and think of you through the coming weeks as you and the girls mourn.
What a journey life is, and how painful are some of the markers.
Love to all.
Sam and Nica were such bright lights at El Carmelo. I am heart broken and deeply saddened by the loss of such a kind and giving family. Our El Carmelo community will not be the same without them.
On behalf of so many Canadians whom I know shall be with me in prayer:
may I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends and communities of Robert, Ana-Maria, Sam and Nica. Your sorrow is known by God. Your grief is shared by millions; your love is forever the strength that, in time, shall lift you above this suffering. But for now, remember, give thanks and share the pain together as they travelled together. God’s peace to you. In time. Jody +
Our heartfelt condolences to Ron and family and Jose, Natalia and family.
From all of us at LUNAR
Adam Reed-Erickson
Alex Rochat
Andrew Zee
Anne-Sophie Matagne
Art Sandoval
Ben Robertson
Benoit Louzaouen
Bob Lane
Brandon Espinoza
Brian Raymond
Clara Wood
Dick Taylor
Erica Simanonok
Evelyne Chaubert
Geoffrey Baldwin
Gerard Furbershaw
Gil Wong
Indu Premakumar
Jaskaran Singh Gill
Jeff Salazar
Jeff Servaites
Jeff Smith
Jessica Gilbertson
John Edson
Jonathan Cofer
Jonathan Downing
Jonathan Mendoza
Julie Day
Junggi Sung
Ken Wood
Kenneth Chou
Kenny Hopper
Krista Bangsund
Kristin Petiford
Laurie Vertelney
Lea Kobeli
Mark Dziersk
Matt Durack
Matt Peterson
Mike Dicanzio
Nick Hausman
Nick Ross
Patrick Summers
Richard Yaus
Ryan Emanuel
Sandrine Lebas
Sasha Tseng
Shihwen Wang
Terence Kwan
Tiffany Ninmer
Travis Lee
Van Lieou
Wenson Chern
Zoe Roman
My heart is saddened to hear of the loss of this family. Our schools have lost a dedicated volunteer and child advocate in Ana-Maria. Our deepest sympathy to both families. May this tragedy remind us to always hold our friends and family close. May they rest in peace.
From Alberta, Canada, I am so sorry for your loss of your family and dear friends, may you find comfort in each other.
While we were on the flight, we read the news about this tragic loss – a whole family while on vacation. As a fellow Palo Alto family, our thoughts and prayers go out to the extended Howard family. Our daughter just became good friends with Sam who was hanging out with us just a little while ago. She was so friendly, funny and warm. My daughter cried the whole way on the flight home. Please share when there will be services. The Howard family will be remembered by the whole community.
Yanessy and Nica played soccer together the last season……Nica a sweet, kind and loving person to everyone…….Robert and Anamaria were always so helpful…. Sam was always helping the coach and the team mates (like tighing soccer shoes). They will be in our prayers.
We send our condolences to the extended family and friends……..
Yadira, Carlos and Yanessy………..
Heartfelt condolences from us here in Canada. We travelled the same hwy this weekend after the accident. I’m very sorry for your community’s loss and my thoughts are with you all during this time as you remember the family and grieve for their loss. May they rest in peace.
I can’t find words to describe how tragic I think this accident was. Rest in peace and my deepest condolences to the entire family and all their friends.
Philipp | Vancouver, BC Canada
Prayers to your family.
I too am heartsick and shocked at the loss of this wonderful El Carmelo family. Selfishly, I wish I had had the chance to get to know them myself, because it’s clear from all your comments that they were very special people indeed. Peace and comfort to all who mourn them.
I too was heartsick and shocked by the loss of this El Carmelo family. Selfishly, I wish I had had the chance to get to know them myself, because I can see from all your comments that they were very special people indeed. Peace and comfort to all who mourn them.
my thoughts and prayers to the family and friends
such a tragic loss. May god bless them all and keep them safe
How very sad the loss of the family in this tragic accident is.
We just couldn’t believe what we were reading yesterday about such a terrible tragedy to such a lovely family.
Our heart felt sympathy goes out to family and friends . This family was special and it seems so unbelievable what has happened what outgoing kind girls Sam and Nica were and what amazing parents and rolemodels Robert and Ana Maria were to them and their community. May they always be In the hearts of there loved ones and an example to us all missed by us all.
As a BC resident my heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of this seemingly wonderful family. this has been a very tragic accident that has taken 4 lives way to soon. May you all get through this with the wonderful memories you all have of Robert, Ana-Maria, Sam and Veronica.
We came upon this accident right after it happened, my husband and another traveller tried to help but unfortunately the fire and heat was to great and could not try to get close and render help. Our hearts our saddened to learn of the loss.
The Howards were my neighbors, and I am so saddened by this tragic loss. My heartfelt sympathy to their family.
We’re just stunned.
I’ve known Robert since Stanford days, and a bunch of us went out for
“burgers” almost once a week for most of the nineties. We’d go
camping in the desert, with his faithful camper Edwina as the Mother
Ship – Anza Borrego, Death Valley, Mojave – cracking silly jokes over
the radio as we drove. I don’t think I’ve known anyone else with a
quicker mind, and certainly not with a quicker wit. He had the whole
room in stitches at the wedding reception as my Best Man in 2000.
Ana-Maria was warm, generous, and interested in everything. And
whenever we saw Nica and Sam, they seemed to be growing up to be just
as wonderful and interesting as you’d expect, given such parents. Our
families had drifted a bit out of touch over the past few years, as we
were all busy with our own lives, but every time we got together,
whether planned or by chance, it still clicked like old times. We
always thought we’d have more…
The stories above have brought some smiles and some tears, like
remembering Ana-Maria’s crazy re-upholstered salon chair in the living
room. The stories of Ana-Maria’s and Robert’s generosity are
heartwarming and not at all surprising.
We’ve gathered up some pictures I had into a set on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamisongray/sets/72157627151143289/
Ron, Kim, David, John, Cindy, Tim – our hearts goes out to you.
Jamie, Nicole, Stephanie and Amanda
Just beautiful pictures of a beautiful family! Thank you for sharing them with the world! 🙂 May the Lord Bless you and your family!!
I am praying for you and your friends and the family of the Howards. Krista in Ontario, Canada.
I’ll always remember Robert as a whirlwind of positive energy, affection and willingness to help. He went out of his way to help people, carried good humor around and his smile exuded niceness. You will be missed terribly, Rob. May peace be upon the family.
We are heartbroken. They were a wonderful family–Robert so friendly and cheerful, Ana-Maria an inspiration to women and moms everywhere, and the girls so full of promise. For just one instance, I’ve heard Sam smooth out squabbles in my car. Our deepest condolences to Robert and Ana-Maria’s family. Please know they left a legacy that many many of us will try to live up to.
Yesterday I found out about this truly tragic accident and it certainly affected me. My sincere condolences to family, friends, colleagues and the community. It is very sad and I can tell they were a very loved and cherished family.
Mike – Vancouver, BC
To Mary and Ricky (Eric) and the whole family:
I am just so awfully saddened by this tragedy and the loss of such an incredibly genuine and delightful family (likely few of the nicest/sweetest people I have ever met).
I am grateful for having the opportunity to spend some wonderful “quality” time with Ana-Maria, Robert, Sam and Nica.
I will always remember Ana-Maria pulling me in for a big hug and greeting me at family events—she was always so full of life, outgoing and instantly made me feel at ease with her wonderfully relaxed rapport. Even when I had the chance to meet up with Ana-Maria after years had passed between the time I saw her last, she was able to seamlessly pick up where we had previously left off (she seemed to have complete recall). I will also remember Robert as being a truly great guy, also very easy going, laid-back and genuinely interested in conversing with me and talking about his family. Although my interaction with the two girls, Sam and Nica was limited, I do recall how sweet, pleasant and well-mannered they were, which was an absolute reflection of Ana-Maria and Robert and how well they had raised them to be.
I just recalled a cute memory from the last time I was over your home in Kirkland for Zachary’s Bar Mitzvah when we were all laughing while comparing older pictures of the family with more current ones and we were all teasing each other with how we used to look.
I know they will all be truly missed, but it will be the wonderful memories we have of them that will go on forever.
-Dana
(terribly saddened brother in-law and brother).
-Dix Hills, New York
We are so sad and so sorry for everyone in Robert’s and Ana Maria’s family and for the whole Lunar family. I knew Robert only briefly but was taken by his talent and quick wit right from the beginning. Our family is a lot like they were with girls around the same age. We are deeply moved and made so terribly sad by this tragic accident. So sorry for them. Mark, Elizabeth, Monroe, Emilee and Elissa.
Extending deepest condolences to family and friends of the Howard family. Rest in peace Robert, Ana-Maria, Samantha and Veronica.
Lynn Fenn-Edgington ~ Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Robert was a friend and mentor for the seven years I worked for him at Lunar. He genuinely helped shape my career and life; Reena and I are devastated by this news and we wish the best for Robert and Ana-Maria’s families.
Something I’d like to share: An anecdote that always makes me grin took place a few years ago as some friends and I were hiking along a very rocky dry riverbed in Henry Coe State Park. This trail was enough of an ankle-twister to be sketchy for hiking, so imagine our surprise to see a mountain-biker slowly trundling towards us in the distance. “Who is that nut?” we commented to each other. As the gap between us closed, we realized that he was actually towing a trailer behind his bike. This was met with even more amazement by my group. Finally, as he drew near, I laughed outloud and proclaimed, “That’s my BOSS!”
Sam and Veronica, quite little at the time, just sat contentedly in the trailer as Robert caught his breath and took in our disbelieving inquiries of what he was doing out there. His response, of course: “Just going for a ride.”
Robert, Ana-Maria, Sam, Veronica, we’ll miss you all.
Having a young family myself and being from the area that this truly sad tragedy happened, l felt very strongly compelled to offer my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends that have been so affected by their loss.
l have been following this tragic story since l came across it online when it was first reported on Friday afternoon and found out that it happened in Radium (a very quiet and peaceful community literally right at the gates of Kootenay National Park): a place that l’m very well familiar with having grown up there.
Just now is when l found out in the follow-up story that it was a very special family simply on vacation enjoying time together in our beautiful provinces of BC and Alberta.
To hopefully put some peace into people’s hearts and minds, the story goes on to say that through no fault of their own, the driver of the family’s van did everything they could to avoid the accident, but just were not able to escape the oncoming vehicle that had crossed the centerline in windy and wet conditions. For anyone interested, here is the link to the story that l read.
http://www.theprovince.com/news/Wonderful+family+killed+during+vacation+Canadian+Rockies/5152195/story.html
My heart hurts at your loss and my thoughts are with your friends and family in their passing.
We are overwhelmed with shock and sadness by this tragic loss and wish to send wishes of peace and strength to the family and friends touched by these special people.
Libby Family
Camping is what Howard family loved to do. What amazed me is how the camper I spent my childhood in was still going. When my sister Cindy gotten married, our parents gave the camper to her. Her family enjoyed using the camper for some years and eventually Cindy and John passed it on to his brother. Robert kept it in good shape despite the age the camper was getting on. It showed how talented and creative he was.
Robert liked to have fun (those motorized little cars!) and was good company whenever I saw him. He was just an all around sweet guy. And then an all around sweet Ana-Maria came along. I enjoyed going over to their house for Christmas parties as it was so colorful, a reflection of Ana-Marie’s taste. That bright colored chair! I will always have the memory of visiting with her in the kitchen while she was making parmesan eggplant. Delicious, by the way! One year, she gave me one of my favorite Christmas gift – a family calendar. It showed just how thoughtful she was.
Like Uncle Burton, I have the misfortune of not living so close to them. I am sorry to have not gotten to know lovely Sam and Nic well. It seemed I was always leaving when they show up at Cambria for camping. I do know they were most fortunate of having such loving parents.
The family will be missed. I will always have such good memories of them.
In between the great sadness and grief, I thank the fates for bringing this family into my life. For Robert and Ana-Maria’s generosity, support, cheerfulness and humor and most especially for their two girls. Sam and Nica, I am the blessed one for having you both in my class, for getting to be a part of your lives; experiencing your spark, creativeness, enthusiasm, caring and humor; for always coming to volleyball with me each year and Nica’s beautiful desert Haiku poems and so much more.
Be in peace. You’ll be in our hearts and memories always.
My family sends our deepest condolences to the Howard family for this truly unthinkable loss. The world is less for this tragedy, and better for the too-short time they were here to share with the rest of us.
From Alberta, Canada – Although we did not know them; we travel the same stretch of highway every weekend to go camping with our children. My heart is aching for all the family and friends who knew this seemingly amazing family. May this loss remind everyone how fragile life is. We all want to get home safe at the end of each day. God Bless you all.
Very sad news. May God give you all strength to bear this immense loss.
Our whole family is devastated and numb by this tragic news. We still can’t believe that a whole wonderful family is gone , and we would never see their happy, positive, smiling faces again ! it is truly and totally incomprehensible …
My kids and Sam and Nica practically grew up together since KG all the way through Sam’s 6th grade. Hana and Sam were on the same volleyball team and Ana-Maria and I took turns taking them to and from practice. They were such amazing and kind and genuine people. It was really not fair and none of them deserved to die. They are certainly a big loss to all of us, in every way. With our deepest sympathy and our prayers to the remainder of the Howard and Diaz families. Miki, Ali, Pasha and Hana Kamarei.
My family and I are heartbroken at the loss of such a wonderful family so suddenly. We will miss each of them dearly. Ana-Maria with her intense love of her family, desire to help children, and giving heart to her friends and all–I will miss hashing out PTA problems, kid ideas, and school stuff with you. Robert with his boundless enthusiasm, energy, and humor–we will miss our off-road adventures with you and your girls. Sam and Nica–two beautiful young ladies who were an absolute delight to be with. There are no words to express how sad we feel. God bless and rest in peace. –The Schuurs
Dearest Mary, Eric, Zack…May God give you strength and comfort during these very difficult days. Memories of your wonderful sister Ana Maria and family will always live in our hearts.
We are all heartbroken to hear of this tragedy. Ana-Maria was so giving of her time and energy in volunteering at El Carmelo. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone.
What a testament I read here to a wonderful, loving and well-loved family. I just want to add my condolences for Ron and the rest of the family. The pain we feel reflects the happiness these people brought to others.
It was so hard to tell my daughter Sohini that her friend Samantha was no more. What a meaningless tragedy! Sohini told me how nice Samantha was to her always and my wife told me how she always admired the way Anna Maria and Robert had brought up their kids and how she felt they were destined to grow up to be wonderful adults. May they all rest in peace.
A day later, this news seems just as difficult to comprehend. Ana Maria , the cheerful doer , will always stay with me. My heartfelt sympathy to all of you who counted them as friends and family.
We just read the news last night – it was a shocking and so unfortunate accident. I have had a close relationship with Lunar Design for well over 20 years, and met and worked with Robert when he joined in the 90’s. He was always up-beat, professional, creative and supportive. He often talked of camping and his family and it’s obvious he had a passion for the outdoors and family centered activities. I wish I had had the opportunity to meet the rest of his family – now too soon gone. My wife and I send our deepest condolences, and we will keep you all in our thoughts. May Robert and his family rest in peace.
Gary and Bj Cantu
I knew Robert for many years. When I heard Robert’s voice on the phone, nothing else mattered, he had my attention. Most people will never know how his innovations affect there their lives, and he never worry about that. To him, it was always a job done well that helped others. I did not know his family, may god bless them all.
I have been in tears since I got this news on Sunday evening. My time with Ana Maria and Robert always left me wanting more. They were so full of humor, grace, and happiness. Sam and Nica were such lovely girls. It’s an unimaginable loss to their family. My thoughts are with you.
Our hearts go out to the extended Howard family. We are thinking of you. Thank you for putting this page up so that we may all come together.
Deepest condolences to the Howard family, and friends. Such an unfair fate, untimely loss; impossible to reconcile in any rational manner. Peace be with them.
This accident has deeply saddened many, many people in Western Canada. We take pride in our abilty to safely host and entertain our American friends and neighbors who visit us.
I was on the highway that day, and wondered who was involved in this horrific accident. When the news came out it was a family of four, with young children, it hit all of us very hard.
Our sincere condolences go out to the good people of Palo Alto, for this devasting loss. We are thinking of you and wish we could do something, anything to help.
As I drive this highway often, my family and I will place flowers at the sad location of the accident. For what it is worth, the vista’s and scenery in this valley are amazing. The Howard Dias family went to heaven from a beautiful place, now a much sadder place for all of us.
We will remember them……
Peter from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Yujin:
I just heard this news, and I am seriously distressed by it. I cried. Even though I didn’t know her that well I knew her well enough to know that she was a very kind-hearted girl, friendly, and she was all so very nice to me. In JLS, she was always coming to us during brunch, talking, non-stop, and it, sometimes, was annoying. But I liked her very much, and I never knew she would… I won’t say it, it makes me sad. I really hope she would get judged fairly by god, enter the Heaven and be reborn happily. I really do. Samantha, you always, even though you won’t be… seeing this comment… were able to encourage my hopes when I was sad. I always thought of you when I felt hopeless because your smile and talks, I was sure, could lead me out of that hopelessness. Now, Samantha, you can never do that. But… I hope you will remember me forever, even though you are gone, and I really want to say this… I love you.
What can I say that has not already been said with much more elocuent words than I could ever write…
When it came to discussing volunteering jobs at el Carmelo, me and other moms used to comment that we should strive to meet the “Ana Maria Standard”. We all laughed and knew that we could only hope to be half as good as her, and if we did, we knew we were going to be doing an amazing job!
Ana Maria, I will always remember how you always took time to say hi in a warm and cheerful way, how Robert did the same and how dedicated parents you were.
Our community will miss you.
I promise I will honor your life and that of Robert, Sam and Nica, by being more kind, warm, cheerful and dedicated to my friends and family; I will take more neighborhood walks with my kids; I will be more welcoming to my friends and will actively seek opportunities for volunteering even more at school. If I am able to do half of what you did, I will be a better person and your memory will live through my actions.
I promise.
Nuetro mas sentido pesame a la familia de Robert y Ana Maria y sus hijitas Sam y Mica por su fallecimiento ya que tengo conocimiento por medio de mi nieta Yanessy porque eran amigas en el equipo de footbol y mi hija Yadira Zuñiga Ramos me dio la sentida noticia porque conoce a ROBERT AND ANA MARIA y sus niñas que DIOS LOS GUARDE EN SU GLORIA 26 DE JULIO 2011 MANZANILLO COLIMA MEXICO.
I cried upon receiving this news today. As a young engineer under Robert’s tutelage at Lunar Design from 2000-2002, I have so many fond memories of this man. Sitting directly adjacent to him, I was in pole position to learn, laugh and relate to Robert. He taught me how to approach problems, how to impress clients, and most of all Linguistic Skills For Engineers 101. Moreover, he promoted and embraced the young, diverse, creative and fun loving culture of that company which included tolerating our often beaknik mp3 office music! Most of all, he was a very understanding person who enjoyed listening and helping whenever possible. I love you, man.
Dearest Kim,
I am so sorry for your loss. I can only hope that your robust inner strength will see you through the days ahead. Please know that I will be here for you, even after the website is full. My condolences to you and your family.
Love,
Hillary
I worked breifly with Robert years ago at Lunar, and was touched by his intellect, energy, compassion and wit. Somehow this news really reached to my core. This beautiful family may not grace the world with thier physical presence, but their energy and love will be with all of us who know and care.
To have thier passing not be in vain, may it strengthen the bond of family, freinds, and all who knew Robert, Ana-Maria, Nica, and Sam.
I consider Robert Howard a good friend from Paly (Palo Alto High School). Robert was sensitive, had a big heart, and always strived for everyone to be happy. His sense of humor made it really easy to get to know him.
This tragedy really hits close to home and “it will never happen to me”, as my children are the same ages and we just returned from our family vacation on the road.
My wife met Robert at a Paly reunion when Robert opened his home to his friends. At that time, we both had pre-toddler children and relatively new wives. We shared stories and compared notes.
I empathize for the Howard family as I experienced a similar catastrophe one day before my birthday 17 years ago involving my father, his new bride, and a jack-knifed truck on rain-slick road. However, in this case I feel for the Howards who must make sense of the penultimate pain of the loss of children.
The world has lost a great guy.
This beautiful family was apart of every classroom and every event that took place at El Carmelo. It will never be the same place without their energy, warmth, smiles, and leadership. They are amazing role models for how to live with love, kindness, and your priorities in the right order…xoDenise
Robert and I worked together at Apple Computer years ago. While many engineers at that time had a “its not in my job description” approach to thinking creatively, Robert was always willing to think and explore. He often became the first person to discuss new concepts with. I really believe he enjoyed stretching the boundaries of the new and untried.
I remember one time we were discussing the relative advantages of computer input devices. I was a die-hard mouse man and he just as adamantly believed in track balls. Well, the discussion eventually came around to the idea of combining a mouse and trackball into one device. We thought we were really onto something!
Robert went off and within a few days (and I might add on his own time) and created a working prototype. Wow. Of course the sad postscript to this is that we dutifully presented this to our less-than-stellar management at the time and were shot down with the typical “I’ve never seen one of those before” and “you’re making me have to think” types of excuses. I still think (and I have to believe Robert would agree with me) that it would have been a crackerjack product.
Robert was that rare engineer who was always exercising his mind about that “next great thing” just over the horizon, We will miss him.
No words can express the sadness of this tragedy. In all if Life there is nothing harder to deal with than this type of loss. I am now a couple hours from where this happened and it has affected me emotionally all week.
I have seen all the photos of the family and read all the stories. Our minds cannot comprehend this tragedy but in our deepest levels of our minds we may sense and know a reality over and above All religion and belief that there is really no ultimate loss here and that Life and awareness never ends but just changes form. There is more to existence than meets the eye and we all have to face our own mortality in due time. This beautiful family inspired many people and despite this loss that has occurred in the “blink of the eye of the Cosmos” I have found comfort knowing how many people loved them and inspired them and from my feeling and understanding that consciousness, the soul, or Spirit is forever and we simple cannot see or sense this because if our “thick” physical senses.
The good that this family has produced far outweighs any loss and ultimately should show us that there is no loss. Only change
Bless this family and their family and friends and all who were involved in this. I know it’s hard to comprehend and even think about.
We cannot begin to say what we feel about the loss of this lovely family.
All week long I have been thinking about the first time I remember seeing Ana Maria. My oldest son was in Kindergarten, and she was with Veronica (who was probably around 4 at that time — she was just a year younger than Daniel). They were outside one of the Kindergarten classrooms at El Carmelo, and Ana Maria was sorting through an incredibly large box of playground equipment that children use during recess. Everything was tangled and in such a state of MESS, but she and her daughter were making a bit of a game of cleaning it up. I remember thinking to myself — “what an amazingly thoughtful and energetic bit of volunteer work: to sort the playground equipment and to make sorting that mess, a game”. I think that I remember that morning so clearly because, in the years that followed, I saw Ana Maria accomplish _all_ of the many tasks she undertook for El Carmelo (and she did so many, from that simple task to those greatly engineered tasks) with the same kind of thoughtfulness and energy. She was the type of person we all admire and appreciate.
We will miss her and her family; it is so clear from these posts that so many will miss them. We send our prayers and love to their extended families. xoxo Ann
We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. I feel privileged to have known Robert during my Lunar years.
I remember his positive attitude, brilliance and compassion.
Our condolences to Robert and Ana-Maria’s families and Lunar Design.
The Denhez family
We were so grieved to hear of this tragedy. I have known Robert since college and will miss his delightful wit, bright spirit, and love for tinkering with things. Ana-Maria’s welcoming heart, generosity and contributions to our schools will be remembered by many for years to come. Samantha was a bright and friendly classmate of our younger son’s and I am so sad we will not get to know the wonderful person she would have grown up to become. You will be missed, Robert, Ana-Maria, Sam, and Veronica.
This tragedy affects people on both sides of the border. As a father, I am profoundly saddened by the loss of this wonderful family. They leave a legacy of warmth and love and will never be forgotten. Life is so fragile – life each day fully and with gratitude for your blessings.
John- A prayer that my unlce gave to us children when my father passed away
Joseph, Michelle and Jordan Dittberner
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
Jesus pronounced a blessing on people who are courageous enough to grieve. Nothing could be more surprising than this. When we grieve, we often feel like spiritual failures. But God sees things differently. From God’s perspective, mourning is valued. It is an occasion for blessing. It comes with the opportunity for comfort.
To be comforted is to be held in the safety of arms you trust. To be comforted is to weep and rage in the company of someone who loves us. The hard edges of the pain are soothed. Strength and hope return in some measure. Healing begins.
Grieving is a commitment to the hard work of facing reality and allowing ourselves to feel the full range of emotions God has given us. It is painful work. But it is work that is blessed by God.
Father of comfort,
you are my refuge and strength,
my help in times of trouble.
Were it not for your faithfulness,
I would hide from my pain.
I would choose not to see my losses.
I would not be able to face what has happened.
Man of sorrow, teach me to grieve.
Give me the courage to mourn
so that I can be comforted.
Amen.
I remember first meeting Ana Maria when I was welcoming new families to El Carmelo many years ago. I was immediately struck by her warmth and enthusiasm. My heart goes out to her and Robert’s family, and to the El Carmelo community, for this tragic loss.