Gauge Allen Howell, 15

Feb. 5, 2008, will forever go down in history as one of the greatest days on this earth. On that day, Gauge Allen Howell was born to the luckiest parents in the world, Chad and Amy Howell. Gauge was raised in North Idaho for his short 15 years.

In many ways, he was a typical teenage boy. His room was always a mess, but he knew where everything was. He loved his parents, but would rather they not hug him in public. His little sister, Tessa (13), was his No. 1 girl, whom he would go to the ends of the earth to protect, but would never tell her that.

However, in every other way, Gauge was extraordinary. He was strong physically and mentally. He felt it his duty to protect those who were smaller, less confident or simply the underdog. Gauge was kind and had a deep affection for animals. The younger children in his life thought he could walk on water. This kid was filled with natural skills and had an incredible work ethic.

Gauge loved shooting guns, hunting, wrestling and riding motorcycles, but most of all, he loved to race. While cars were his favorite, let’s be honest, he would have raced a golf cart, a moped, even a jazzy chair if the opportunity arose. Starting at the age of 10, he established himself as a true and respected competitor in the adult racing world. You knew it was Gauge in the No. 10 car because his trademark American flag was always mounted on the roof. His entire life he viewed veterans as superheroes. He dreamed of becoming a United States Marine, and a great Marine he would have been.

Gauge was taken from this world far too soon Aug. 27, 2023, following a tragic accident. Gauge was not raised to believe his young age should limit him from doing great things and experiencing a full life. With his father providing for every dream and his mother strapping on the safety equipment Gauge did it all. The world lost an amazing young man.

There will be a celebration of life at 10 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, at Findlay Stateline Speedway (1349 N. Beck Road Post Falls, ID 83854). Anyone who loved Gauge is welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Wounded Warrior Project in No. 10 Gauge Howell’s name at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Please visit Gauge’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.