Howard G. Funk

Memorial visitation for Howard G. Funk, 70, Lawrence, KS will be held at 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Howard passed away Saturday, September 26, 2020 at his home.

Howard was born on November 18, 1949 in Lawrence, the son of Richard and Kathleen (Barrington) Funk.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church and Lawrence Jaycees.

He was a truck driver for over 40 years. Having driven for Zarco, Kaw Transport, LTSI, Wintz and Lids. He also drove a bus for KU

He married Gail L. Penner-Sparks on September 7, 1979 in Lawrence. She survives of the home.

Other survivors include his three daughters, Gaila Gilbert (Darren), Robin Burns (James) and Angela Robertson (Robin). He has 6 grandchildren Dustin Gilbert (Morgan) Travis Burns, A.J. Gilbert, Cassie Montoya (Cesar), Trevor Burns and Grayson Gilbert. 6 great grandchildren as well and brother, Robert Funk and sister, Elaine Maack. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Eddie and Donald Funk.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Visiting Nurses Hospice and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

22 Condolences

  1. Mary LeGer on September 28, 2020 at 4:21 pm

    So sorry to hear of Howard’s passing, he was a good friend & will be missed by many.



  2. Karen Hobbs on September 28, 2020 at 6:17 pm

    Howard, you were one of the funniest men I’ve ever met. Your humor was unforgettable. You had such a big heart and loved Gail and the girls to infinity. You will be missed. I hope there’s a Taco John’s in Heaven! ???? Thank you for the good times and the many laughs. ❤️???? to all your family. RIP



  3. Claudette Ross on September 29, 2020 at 8:29 am

    Gail,
    My condolences to you and your family. May the grace of God comfort you. Just trust and believe in God and God will see you through. God Bless
    Your friend,



  4. Marilyn Lane Figuieras on September 29, 2020 at 11:31 am

    Gail,
    This is such sad news. Howard was such a good guy; always willing to lend a hand. I remember how the two of you were together. He had so much respect and admiration for you, and he was crazy about you…and you were the same about him. My deepest condolences to you and your family.



  5. Bettie Jennings and Texas family on September 29, 2020 at 11:36 am

    Gale and Jennifer so sorry for your loss. Just know you have prayer,hug,and love coming from Texas. Love yall



  6. Marsha Baird on September 29, 2020 at 11:38 am

    Gail, you have been Howard’s angel here for many years. Please remember he’s no longer in pain and he’s in great company. From what I read above, he’s probably telling some pretty good jokes and has them all laughing! One day you’ll be able to remember and laugh, but for now let yourself grieve. Take care my friend.



  7. April Alexander on September 29, 2020 at 12:12 pm

    I got a good chuckle in last night when I remembered the time(s) Howie came to my rescue. Once when I ran out of gas on Iowa and again after smashing Dustin’s truck, white lightning, into the gas pump ???? his “well how in da hell did ya do that?!” Made me smile that day- he could always bring a smile and brighten my day.

    Gail, my heart is heavy for you. Sending big hugs for you and prayers. I’m sure Howie will still find ways to make you smile throughout the day.

    With love, April



  8. sharon Gunther on September 29, 2020 at 12:22 pm

    gail my heart and prayers go out to you and your family❣ going to miss him so much, but I have him in my heart and prayer



  9. Sue Collins on September 29, 2020 at 12:53 pm

    Our family has lost another good one! He will be so missed. No more jokes, no more good hamburgers, no more vivacious laugh no more smirks! He had the kindest heart and would help anyone who needed anything. He loved his family unconditionally and the same goes for them loving him. Gail, my sweet sister, know that I am here for you..we will begin this new chapter in our lives together and will cherish the love of our spouses while doing it. Know he loved you and will always be in your heart.



  10. Steve Markley on September 29, 2020 at 3:11 pm

    Gail and family,

    My sympathies to you and your family. I have many fond memories of Howard in the Lawrence Jaycees. He was a friend to all and faithful worker on chapter projects. God bless him and your family.



  11. Lopez family on September 29, 2020 at 7:28 pm

    Sorry for your loss and our
    Condolences to all the family.



  12. Mark and Michele Trompeter on September 29, 2020 at 7:30 pm

    So sorry to hear of Howard’s passing. He was a great guy!



  13. Judy Copeland on September 29, 2020 at 8:16 pm

    Gayle I’m so sorry I remember having so much fun back in old days



  14. Karla Peek on September 29, 2020 at 8:30 pm

    Howie, you will be missed for your laughter and carrying soul. You were like a big brother in my younger days. You will be Missed! One of the Hadl Girls! Karla Hadl Peek.
    Gail and your beautiful girls, my heart is with you to give you comfort during this time and the time to come. Love you my friend.



  15. Bo Newsom on September 30, 2020 at 8:25 am

    Rest in Peace, Howard. My condolences to his family.



  16. Ruth and Chris Calderwood on September 30, 2020 at 2:16 pm

    Angie and family…..So sorry for your loss, times as these, keep in your thoughts and your heart, the Love and Good Times…..



  17. Leigh Ann Laster on September 30, 2020 at 4:53 pm

    We are so sorry for your loss. Taco John’s won’t be the same without Howard’s visits. He always kept us entertained. Thinking of you.



  18. Fran Johnson on September 30, 2020 at 9:05 pm

    fran and Rob Johnson
    Howard was a funny guy and will be missed-we are sorry for your loss



  19. Marla Dalquest Morgan on October 1, 2020 at 4:01 pm

    Just happened to see this sad news today and wanted to tell Gail how sorry we are for your loss. I will never forget when Tracy and I first came to your home for some fun. Good memories! Marla Dalquest Morgan



  20. John Dobbins on October 1, 2020 at 6:40 pm

    The time I was with Howard was from 1960-1964 at Wakarusa Valley grade school. From the memories listed here, he was the same guy all his life. A great heart and a caring soul. My best to all the family.



  21. Matt Montgomery on October 2, 2020 at 6:49 pm

    My deepest prayers and thoughts to every member of Howards family.
    Howard was truly a great friend and human being.
    I,ll remember him as a funny and loyal friend of many decades.
    I know God has a special place for Howard where he can roam free , have cold Coors Light and entertain the other angels.
    My deepest prayers .



  22. Les Lynch and Emily Hanks on October 5, 2020 at 1:35 pm

    Gail and Family,
    We are deeply saddened to hear of Howards passing. The two of you were the absolute definition of neighborly – and some of the best neighbors we have ever had. From the moment we arrived in our new home, Howard and Roxie were at the front door, ready to help in whatever way they could. From mowing the lawns of nearly every home on the block, to dropping off bags of groceries and treats that Gail made. We will always have a special place in our heart for each of you. Your love and kindness were unmatched. We have no doubt that Howard has secured a riding lawn mower in Heaven, and found a Taco John’s, where he and Roxie will continue to make everyone’s day just a little brighter.

    Sending you all of your love, and strength for the days ahead.

    Sincerely,
    Les, Emily, Carter and River



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