William W. Howard

William Wesley Howard passed away peacefully on January 20,2025, in the company of family. “Bill” was born on April 29, 1933, in Denver, Colorado, to his parents, Wesley E. Howard and Martha A. Dilts Howard. He graduated in 1951 from Denver East High School. He had a long career in education, starting as a high school history teacher. He held a bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and a master’s degree in counseling from Emporia State University. He touched many lives as a teacher and guidance counselor.

Bill met his wife, Patricia A. Stout Howard, at choir practice, while they attended Ottawa University. They were married on August 16, 1953. They enjoyed singing throughout their marriage. He was skilled at working and building with his hands - turning out many woodworking projects and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. He also volunteered for many years delivering Meals on Wheels and at the Winfield Kansas History Museum. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and snow skiing - which he learned growing up in Colorado and returned to in midlife - skiing annually until he was 75. He was known to be the first to work, and he started the coffee at his school and later at his church.

Bill will join his wife in the heavenly choir. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his younger brothers: Richard E. Howard and Thurman R. Howard. He is survived by his children: son, Alan Howard; grandson, Ben Howard; granddaughter Jane (Brian) Delano; daughter, Valerie (Vincent) Burke; grandson, Joseph (Leigh) Burke; great grandsons, JR and Thomas Burke; grandson, W. Michael (Hilary) Burke; great grandson Asher; and sister-in-law, Sharon (Joseph) Schutz; nephews, nieces, cousins and many friends.

A memorial service will be held on February 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO 64145.