Erin Howk, 15

“Stay Gold” is a quote from her favorite book and movie, “The Outsiders,” and a reflection of Erin’s personality, always encouraging others to keep trying their best.

Erin went to bed April 25, 2019, expecting to wake up and see all her friends at Columbia Falls High School, where she was a freshman. Instead the unimaginable happened, and Erin was killed as she slept, when a drunk driver crashed into her bedroom in the early morning hours.

Erin was a beautiful, vivacious young woman inside and out. Erin loved sharing time with family and friends swimming, fishing, shopping and creating fun.

Her infectious laugh and sassy humor endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was always ready to serve and lift as she shared her light and life with all she met.

As Erin joins her brother Auralio, their grieving family appreciates any donations to her memorial fund which will go toward covering funeral expenses and creating a new home.

Keep Erin in your hearts and minds.

Stay Gold — Don’t drink and drive.

A celebration of life for Erin will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls.

Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for the family.