Howard F Furniss

Howard F. Furniss was called home to the Lord, on Thursday, January 18th, 2024 after a long and brave struggle with multiple myeloma, surrounded by his closest family. He joins his parents, Robert and Adele Furniss, and his brother, Robert Furniss Jr. in the light of Our Lord.

Howard (or Howie, to his family and friends), was a warm, friendly, thoughtful man, who felt passionately about doing the right thing, and raising a healthy happy family. Howie was first and foremost a family man. A devoted father, he was also a warm and loving jokester, always there to encourage and guide his children and grandchildren. He adored and dearly loved his wife of 54 years, Therese. Together, they adventured to Nassau, Jamaica, Italy, and their favorite destination, Door County and together they raised and nurtured their family.

Throughout Howie’s life, he most enjoyed time spent with family and friends. Family birthday and holiday parties were his favorite times, and especially dear to him, was attending or watching events his grandchildren were involved in.

He could often be found at the centers of conversations involving his beloved, albeit frustrating, Chicago sports teams, the Cubs, Bears, and his Chicago Blackhawks.

Howie has left behind a legacy of love, integrity, acceptance, and patience.

Howard had a sharp and analytical mind, and enjoyed working as a mechanical engineer at Liquid Controls in Lake Bluff, IL for 30 years, where he designed large metering machinery for liquids of varying viscosity and volumes.

Howie is survived by his loving wife, Terry; his dear daughter Debbie (Jim) Bourn, grandson Jake (Katlyn) Nemiro and granddaughter Kristin Nemiro; his devoted son Dave (Allison) Furniss and granddaughter Sophie Furniss; son Scott (DeAnna) Furniss and grandsons Nik and Nate Furniss; his brother Don (Sue) Furniss, his sister, Darlene Gillis, his sister, Sharon (Jim) Lialios; a host of nieces and nephews, all of whom he took great pride in watching grow and develop into wonderful loving people, and his great nephews and great nieces who each brought him joy.

We imagine that if Howard could give any advice, it would be to take enjoyment in the family you have, the family you build, and to not be afraid to do the hard things, because those are often the most fulfilling for both you, and for your family.

Friends and family will gather for a visitation for Howard that will be held Saturday, January 27th, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Marsh Funeral Home, 305 North Cemetery Road, Gurnee, Illinois 60031, followed by a funeral service from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.