"Fred" Howard Frederick Woods, Jr.

“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.” ~ 1 Corinthians 13:7

Howard Frederick Woods Jr.

MISSOULA ~ Howard Frederick “Fred” Woods Jr., 68, of Missoula, passed away Friday, October 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He is now with his Lord and Savior.

Fred was born on December 25, 1957, in Lewistown, Montana, to Howard and Lucy Woods. He grew up in Hobson, where he developed a love for family, friends, sports, and the outdoors. He developed a lifelong love of reading, riding bikes, exploring, staying active, and a love of adventure throughout his life.

Fred’s curiosity, intelligence, and determination led him to pursue higher education, earning two separate bachelor’s degrees from the University of Montana and Montana State University. He went on to build a dedicated career in the semiconductor industry, working as both an engineer and in sales. Fred contributed to the design of classified military equipment that led to the honor of meeting President George H. W. Bush. His career took him around the world, often with his wife Renee by his side.

In 1981, Fred married the love of his life, Renee. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and family. For more than 45 years, they stood by one another through all of life’s seasons and created a home where their children and grandchildren always knew they were loved.

Fred will be remembered most not for his professional accomplishments, but for the person he was. He had an infectious laugh, quiet wisdom, quick wit, and a genuine ability to make people feel comfortable. He loved people and had a remarkable way of making everyone he encountered feel seen, heard, and known. He was the kind of person who would always lend a helping hand, offer thoughtful advice, or simply sit and listen when someone needed him.

Though Fred’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved him, his family is grateful for the life he lived, the people he touched, and the memories he leaves behind. His laughter, wisdom, kindness, and love will continue to live on through his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Fred was deeply devoted to his family and took great pride in his children and grandchildren. He cherished time spent together and created countless memories that his family will carry with them forever. His humor, stories, generosity, and steady presence will be deeply missed.

Above all, Fred loved Jesus. His faith was not simply something he talked about; it was an important part of who he was and how he lived his life. His family takes comfort in knowing that Fred is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior, where there is no more pain or sorrow and where he is finally home.

Fred is survived by his beloved wife of more than 45 years, Renee; his son, Austin (Jessica); his daughter, Evelyn; his four grandchildren, and his siblings, Cindy (RB) Thomas and Jeffrey Woods.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Lucy Woods.

Arrangements are under the care of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home in Missoula.