Howard Russell Wright

Born in Ogallala, Nebraska on November 29, 1941 he was the middle child and only son of Bernice (Bye) Ott and Alvie Russell Wright, who precede him in death. He grew up on a ranch in Thedford, Nebraska, played football in high school, and became well acquainted with the value of hard work at an early age.

Following high school, he worked a number of jobs in Nebraska and Colorado, including as a security guard at the old dog track in Loveland, Colorado, before beginning a 38 year career at Woodward Governor, where he worked in testing and diesel engine repair on everything from locomotives to warships. He retired in 2007.

On August 5, 1962, Howard married Elsie Ardith Osborn. They wed in Ogallala following a courtship that began in high school, whence Elsie often rejected Howard's attempts to woo. Being a tenacious man who wasn't about to give up on the woman he loved, Howard eventually won Elsie over. They were blessed with three sons: Terrence, Bryan, and Clinton. In 1966, they moved down to Loveland and then out to the ranch in Pierce in 1994.

Howard was a proud father. Though he may not have expressed his love in words, he was ever-present in the lives of his children and always in their corner. He was a good teacher who passed on many skills including welding, trapping, horse-breaking, and muzzle-loading. The family spent plenty of time outdoors hunting, fishing, shooting, and 4x4ing.

Howard was a good and honest man who always put his family first. He'd give anyone in need the shirt right off his back. He was very mechanical and generous with his time and often helped folks in the neighborhood with their car troubles. He was a quiet, matter-of-fact kind of man who preferred a simpler life. He raised animals of all kinds throughout his days and, later in life, enjoyed gardening and card games with the grandkids. He will be dearly missed.

Howard is survived by his wife of 63 years, Elsie Wright; his sons Terry (Kelli), Bryan, and Clint; his grandchildren Colton, Teagan, Sara (Hunter), Sophie, and Calvin; great-grandchildren Aurora, Grayson, and Myles; and by his best dogs Sassy & Griz. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his older sister Carol Kastler and his younger sister Donna Witt, who died in a car accident when she was 16.

A Celebration of Howard's Life will be held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 10:00 am at Resthaven Funeral Home & Memory Gardens in Fort Collins, Colorado, after which he will be laid to rest. Please join Howard's family for a time of fellowship, laughter and remembrance to follow. Light refreshments will be served.

Memories of Howard and words of condolence for his family are welcome at resthavencolorado.com.