Robert Walter Howard

Robert Walter Howard, 91, passed away on July 4, 2014. Robert (Bob) was born in Evanston, IL on July 20, 1922, the eldest of three sons, to Robert and Evelyn Howard (both deceased). Robert proudly served his country during WWII in the United States Army Air Corp flying 30 B-17 combat missions over Europe. His numerous wartime decorations included the Distinguished Flying Cross. He retired from the USAF with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He belonged to and participated in many veterans organizations including the US Air Force Association, 401st Bombardment Group (H) Association, Mighty 8th Air Force Historical Society, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the American Legion. Robert was tireless, selfless and a devoted husband and father. As a life-long Catholic, he lived his life with character and integrity. He was renowned for his technical skills and had deep compassion for those in need, both human and animal. Before his infirmity, he attended St. Joseph Catholic Church. Robert is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Audrey Wade Howard, who he met in Chicago, IL while attending Illinois Institute of Technology (Armour Tech). Additionally, son, John Michael Howard (daughter-in-law, Kim) of Jacksonville; grandchildren William (Billy) and Caroline Howard of Jacksonville; daughter-in-law Linda (Painter) Howard; grandchildren, Sean Howard (Laura), Kristen Reznich (Jeremy), all of the Sacramento, CA area; sister-in-law Linda (Orme) Howard of Roy, UT and many nieces, nephews, and cousins throughout America, Canada, and Australia. He is predeceased by his son, Robert Wade Howard of Sacramento, and brothers, Arthur Howard of Northbrook, IL and Thomas Howard of Roy, UT. The Funeral Service will be held cryptside at 11:00am, Tuesday, July 15 in Greenlawn Cemetery, 4300 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32207. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.