Harold Eugene Howard

Harold Eugene Howard, beloved husband, father, teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent, passed away on January 24, 2024, at the age of 83. Harold was born on November 15, 1940, in Bakersfield, Missouri to Roy and Jewell Howard.  He touched countless lives throughout his career and personal life.

Harold graduated from high school in Oxford, Kansas. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Kansas State University where he played on the baseball team and then earned his master’s degree from Emporia State University. He then went on to earn his specialist degree from Wichita State University as well.

During his time at K-State, Harold met the love of his life, Karen Kilmer. They were happily married and recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Harold began teaching in Axtell, Kansas, where he initially served as a teacher and coach. His commitment to education and guiding young minds led him to teach at Valley Falls and Circle High Schools in Kansas. Throughout his tenure in the education field, Harold's exceptional skills were recognized as he eventually became vice principal at Circle then becoming a principal at the high school in Caney before being promoted to superintendent.  After he retired from education, Harold and his wife, Karen, started Wildcat Striping, a parking lot striping business where they traveled Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas. They met and worked with many wonderful people during that time.

Above all else, Harold cherished spending time with his loving family. He and his wife, Karen, created a nurturing environment for their children, Gayle and Traci. He was a man of deep faith and a member of the United Methodist Church.

Harold had an undeniable passion for golfing and fishing—pastimes that allowed him to build lasting relationships. Furthermore, any Kansas State University game would captivate his attention as he faithfully cheered on the teams he loved.

Those left to carry on Harold's memories are his wife Karen, daughters Gayle (Jeff) Ross, and Traci (James) Ward, grandchildren, Megan, Hillary, Tiffani, Travis, great grandchildren Arthur, Charlotte, Evelyn, and Xavier, his sister Janis Welty, brother Bob (Jenifer) Howard, and sister-in-law Arlene Howard. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law, Darlene and Neil Hall, his brother Deane Howard, his brother-in-law Sam Welty, his grandson Brandon Ross, and his great-grandson DJ Willis.

Honoring Harold's life, there will be two services. The visitation event will take place on January 29, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Potts Chapel located at 107 N State St in Caney, Kansas. The funeral service will be held the following day, January 30, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM at the same location. Burial services will follow at Sunnyside Cemetery in Caney.

Harold Eugene Howard will forever be remembered for his commitment to education, his passion for life's simple joys and hobbies, and above all else, his love for family. May he rest in eternal peace knowing that his memory lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. In lieu of flowers, family suggests donations to Caney Golf Club and may be left at the chapel.