Jack R. Howard, 66, passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. Born on October 24, 1955 in Plymouth, Indiana he was the son of John and Avis (Renz) Howard.
He attended Plymouth High School graduating with the class of 1974 and lived in Wakarusa for the last several years. After graduating high school, Jack enlisted in the Army as a heavy wheel mechanic serving in Hawaii.
Jack was a hard worker serving as a lifelong truck driver hauling FEMA trailers and mobile homes. Jack cared deeply about his family. He had a laugh that could fill a room. He was known in the family for his famous Mac and Cheese and could always be counted on bringing it to the family gatherings. Jack enjoyed playing cards, fishing, going to tractor pulls, and attending country music concerts. He was an avid Nascar fan and would often enjoy watching races while conversing over the phone with his brother about the race.
Jack was known as a stubborn man that had a heart of gold. He was always a steady presence always keeping his word on anything that he set his mind to. When he was on the road driving, he would call his brother Dan to “check in really quick” and the conversations would some times last for an hour or longer.
His legacy will live on in his siblings. Never take life for granted and always make time for your family.
He is survived by his brother Dan Cooley of Milford, IN; sister JoAnn (Bill) Martin of Bourbon; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Jack is preceded in death by his parents, John James and Avis Lola (Renz) Howard, brothers: Robert and Joe Cooley, sisters: Ruth E. Sickmiller and infant Deborah Howard.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 7, 2022 from 11-1 pm at the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth. Funeral services will immediately follow with Life Celebrant James Smart officiating with military honors rendered by the U.S. Army Honor Guard and the Plymouth Am. Legion Post #27.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.
Fred Webster says
I went to high school with Jack…he was a great guy and we would cross paths from time to time in our adult lives… always enjoyed talking to him
Marla Keefer says
So sorry for your loss I remember him as a chid when he come to our house to play with Kevin and the girls Last time I saw him was at Kevins viewing and he hadnt changed a bit only gotten gray. Again sorry for your loss
Kay Davis says
I am so sorry for your family. I excourted for a while for Jack. My grandson is Eric Saunders and he miss Jack. If it hadn’t been for Jack he wouldn’t be where he is today.Jack was such a kind kind man. And will missed by everyone who new him. Thanks So much. Kay Davis.
Chad Barnaby says
Was a family friend and he will be truly missed he was a great guy I would bump into him on the road every now and then
Steve Maisonneuve says
My heartfelt condolences go out to Jack’s entire family.
Jack pulled homes for Fairmont Homes for many years going back to the Commander Transport days. He was sometimes ornery but he always gave you the truth. Jack will definitely be missed by all that knew him through the many years of pulling out of Nappanee. I for one will miss speaking with him when he came in and also the care he took in ensuring my units always arrived at their destination in the same shape they left the plant. Godspeed Jack
Kevin Holland says
Jack was a great person used to run around in high school and graduated in the same class!
A Facebook friend!
RIP my friend and prayers to the family!
Sherrie says
Jack It is still unbelievable that your gone. Matthew was so happy and honored to call you his paw paw Jack. He loved you so much. I won’t let him forget all the things we did together. And I will never see blueberry festival the same again.thank you for being a hudge part of Matthews life.