Mack Laverne Howell

Born May 6, 1949 in Wardell, Missouri, he was a son of Curtis O. and Mary J. (Fish) Howell. He married the love of his life, Patti JoAnn Simms on October 10, 1978. His wife survives and together they enjoyed 46 years of loving marriage.

Also surviving are two daughters, Carrie Howell of Killeen, Texas and Andrea (Michael) Brindell of Peoria; ten grandchildren, Robert Howell, Sarah (Aaron) Williams, Kristopher Howell, Nina Howell, Noah Tisdale, Nikolas Tisdale, Mosses Howell, Sophia Howell-Dancer, Robert Burch and Olive Howell; eight great-grandchildren and two brothers, John Howell and Thomas Howell, Sr., both of Pekin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sons, Robert Ryjon Augustus Howell, Nicholas Allen Howell, and Lucas Matthew McKuen Howell; one great-granddaughter and two brothers, Jerry Howell and Curtis Wendell Howell.

He was a United States Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he became disabled and subsequently worked actively in various ways to provide and support his beloved family. He was a family centered man and an active community member. He enjoyed making model cars, playing chess, and upcycling or making things new again. He was an ardent fan of Elvis Presley music and movies, enjoyed watching Westerns and betting on the horses.

Mack was Baptist and he was strong in his faith, routinely sharing scriptures, songs, and videos he came across with loved ones.

His memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Randy Justus will officiate and military rites will be accorded by the United States Army. A celebration of life gathering with hors d’oeuvres will be held following the service in the event room at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Greater Peoria Honor Flight, P.O. Box 5072, Peoria, IL 61601.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com