Susan Howden

Susan Lynn Howden, lovingly known as Lynn, was born on August 12, 1949, in Yakima, Washington, and passed away peacefully at her home in Tumwater, Washington, on December 27, 2024.  

Lynn was the cherished daughter of Andy and Doris Rosinbum and spent her childhood on the apple orchards of Cowiche, Washington, where she learned the value of hard work and perseverance. She was predeceased by her parents, Andy and Doris Rosinbum, in 2017 and her sister, Cindy Harness "Bub" in 2020.  She is survived by her brother, Dave Rosinbum.  

In 1971, Lynn married Rich Martin, with whom she shared her life with until his sudden passing in 2007. Together, Lynn and Rich built a life filled with faith, adventure, and devotion to family. They were the proud and loving parents to their two sons, Justin and Scott, who were the light of their lives. 

After the passing of Rich, Lynn was fortunate to find love again.  She married Robert “Bob” Howden on November 22, 2008.  Through Bob Lynn was blessed with two additional sons, Brady and Tighe Howden.  

Lynn’s greatest joy came from being "Grammie" to her eight treasured grandchildren: Naomi and Carson; Penelope and Alex; Colby and Emily; and Liam and Jake. Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she showered them with unconditional love that will forever be remembered.  

A fine arts major who quickly became an elementary school teacher, Lynn was a gifted educator whose dedication touched countless young lives. She taught kindergarten through second grade at Michael T. Simmons Elementary and Tumwater Hill Elementary schools. Fondly remembered as the "favorite teacher" by many of her students, Lynn’s influence extended far beyond the classroom walls. Even after retiring in 2009, former students often greeted her warmly around town—testament to the lasting impact she had on their lives.  

Lynn’s deep love for Jesus guided every aspect of her life. A faithful servant of Christ, she exemplified kindness, forgiveness, and unwavering faith in all she did. Her spiritual journey brought immense peace to those who knew her as she shared God’s love through both words and actions. She found joy in gardening, decorating her home with care, reading Scripture daily, and spending serene moments at her beach cabin watching for whales—a place that brought her great solace.

After retiring from teaching, Lynn embraced opportunities to explore the world alongside Bob. Their travels took them all over the world.  In Vietnam and Ukraine, Lynn and Bob formed meaningful friendships that transcended borders. She also provided her family with cherished  trips to Disneyland and Disney World as well as memorable vacations to Cabo San Lucas, Canada, and her Kalaloch Cabin on the Olympic Peninsula.

Lynn’s memory will forever be a blessing to all who knew her. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace with her Savior in heaven. As someone whose faith was central to her life’s purpose, she wished for all those she loved to share in the promise of eternal life through Christ.

John 5:24: "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life."  

May Susan Lynn Howden’s legacy of faith, love, and kindness continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan 25, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Littlerock Community Fellowship.

11510 Littlerock Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512