Howard Lee Sharp

Howard Lee Sharp, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully at Brio of Johnston Senior Living Center in Johnston, Iowa, on August 30th, 2025. He was 81 years old.

Howard was born in Fort Scott, Kansas on November 8, 1943, and graduated high school in Brush, Colorado. He was a proud and dedicated 22-year veteran of the United States Army (4 years) and the United States Air Force (18 years). Howard served his country with honor and distinction. After Howard retired from military service, he continued his medical career as a traveling Histologist making his way to numerous short-handed hospitals all over the county to help with analyzing medical tissue samples, and providing the opportunity for he and his best friend and significant other, Audrey, to see much of the great country he loved. His commitment to service extended far beyond the military and the medical world, as he was known for his kind and gentle nature, his unwavering love for his family, and his deep sense of duty to those around him. Howard’s legacy is one of integrity, compassion, and selflessness, and he touched the lives of all who knew him.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Ruby Sharp, one sister, Dorothy, and 2 great-grandchildren. He is survived by his significant other of 40+ years Audrey Hale, his sister Helen, his brother Harold “Butch”, and a large, loving family who will carry on his memory. He leaves behind 1 daughter Tammy Sharp-Becker, 1 son Jamey (Tammy), along with 5 more extended family children, 17 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom were fortunate to know his warmth and guidance.

A public visitation to honor Howard’s life and legacy will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 5:00pm – 7:00pm at Ankeny Funeral Home in Ankeny, IA, located at 1510 W 1st St, Ankeny, IA 50023. There will be a time of sharing at 5:00 pm at the funeral home. Howard will be laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, IA, with full military rites on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 11:00 am.

Howard will be remembered not only for his military service but for the kindness and tenderness with which he loved his family and friends. His absence leaves a void, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, Howard— Your memory will forever be cherished.