Edward John Howe

Private, 45th Battalion / 27th Battalion
Canadian Expeditionary Force – First World War

Service Summary

Edward John Howe was born in Canterbury, Kent, England, and was one of ten children. At the age of sixteen, he immigrated to Canada before the outbreak of the First World War. He enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force in 1915.

Wartime Experience

Edward first served with the 45th Battalion before later serving in France with the 27th Battalion until 1918.

He served through the difficult years of trench warfare alongside fellow soldiers including W.S. Toovey, Art Neale, and Harry Harland.

Post-Service Life

In January 1922, Edward married Lillian Fitzgerald of London, England, in Minnedosa.

He worked in a variety of local occupations, including with Frank Jury, the curling rink, Iverson’s Ice Company, J.H. Brown Lumber Company, carpentry work, and later the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Edward was a Charter Member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138 and received the Meritorious Service Award for his work helping erect both Legion halls in Minnedosa.

He was also fondly remembered as the Legion Santa Claus.

Edward passed away in 1970.

Medals & Honours

• 1914–1918 War Medal

• Great War for Civilization Medal

• War Service Medal 1914–1919