John E. Howland

John E. Howland’s Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 10th, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. The Celebration of Life will be held at the Howland Farm, directly across from the Lawrence Virtual School, 1104 E. 1000 Road. Parking is available at the Lawrence Virtual School. Dress casual and wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a lawn chair. If you have a handicap sticker please have it visible so you can be directed to the Handicap Parking Area.

 

John E. Howland, 75, Lawrence, passed away Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Stormont Vail Health in Topeka, KS.

John was born November 18, 1943 in St. Joseph, MO, the son of Edward and Harriett (Megown) Howland.

He was a professor of Psychology and retired from Haskell Indian Nations University.

John was the founder/owner of Midwest Driving School which was later sold.

He married Valeria Ramirez on June 6, 1970 in Horton, KS. She survives of the home.

Other survivors include his son, Jayson Howland, Lawrence, KS; daughter, Elizabeth “Betsy” Howland-Austin, Junction City, KS; one granddaughter, Czarina Sutherland Howland, Lawrence, KS; brother, Clarence Howland, Emporia, KS; sister, Annette Marriott, Troy, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Ida Rae Wykert and Carrie Lee Reed, both were of Troy, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Zion International Ministries and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

44 Condolences

  1. Eric Anderson on April 19, 2019 at 8:56 pm

    John was a wonderful colleague and friend who made me feel so welcome when I first arrived to teach at Haskell. He always had a smile, a laugh or joke to share, and pearls of wisdom that came from both his wealth of experience and a big heart. He will be sorely missed. —Eric Anderson



  2. Joel Hernandez on April 19, 2019 at 9:06 pm

    Mr. Howland was a Haskell gem. Just about everyone had taken at least one of his classes. He was a great professor, which is why I took all the classes he offered!! He was always involved in different events around campus and fashioned his smile and welcoming spirit everywhere he went. He will be missed dearly.



  3. Steve Corbett on April 19, 2019 at 10:27 pm

    John and his family have been neighbors of my mom since we moved back to Lawrence in the ’70s. John was a fun guy who was always great to us as kids. I’m really sorry to hear about his passing. My sympathies to Val, Jay, and Betsy.



  4. Lisa Stabler on April 19, 2019 at 11:15 pm

    My condolences to his family. The new students at Haskell missed out not having taken one of his classes! RIP Mr Howland.



  5. Charles Kayser on April 20, 2019 at 5:13 am

    I had the fun of playing three sports with him, football, basketball, and track. In football, he was a legend making amazing pass catches. In basketball his Freshman year – my Sophomore- we played JV and were on the bench for varsity games. Oh, the joking fun we had at the end of the bench – that Coach Johnson didn’t hear! And then in track, he was our pole vaulting ace. Most importantly now, I remember him as a sincere follower of Jesus.



  6. Skip & Trish DeVilling on April 20, 2019 at 7:01 am

    We were saddened to learn of Johnny’s passing. “Scat” was a wonderful teammate and friend. We played on Championship Football Teams at College of Emporia, where he was an exciting player and the “glue” for those years. Our deepest sympathy goes to the Howland Family. Rest in Peace “Scat” you will be missed!



  7. Russ Wiggins on April 20, 2019 at 7:45 am

    I’ve known John for only ten years but felt as I’ve known him my entire life. He made me feel so welcome in his life. We would sit and talk bicycles for hours. Our thoughts are with Val and family. May God be with and hold you in this time of grief. Rest in peace my dear friend.



  8. Jenn Lewis on April 20, 2019 at 8:29 am

    Professor Howland was definitely one of the Great educators at HINU. He was such a thoughtful and caring guy. He will be missed dearly. My sincere Condolences to the family.



  9. Neil and Roberta Crane on April 20, 2019 at 9:29 am

    So sad to hear of John’s passing. I knew him from the College of Emporia and pound for pound he was one of the toughest football players I have ever been around. He will be missed.



  10. Rod Kirschner on April 20, 2019 at 9:56 am

    So sad to hear of Coach John’s passing. My junior year at Horton HS he was our asst football, asst track, and head basketball coach. He was a very personable coach and made practices enjoyable. Great person who will be missed. Thanks for the life lessons, and friendship over the years. Prayers to Val and the family.



  11. Valerie Earhart on April 20, 2019 at 12:20 pm

    John was a wonderful friend! His quiet countenance, smile and humor was always appreciated. One thing I know…he loved his family more than anything! My most sincere prayers and condolences to Val, and all his family and friends. He was a great man. I am better for knowing him.



  12. Brenda Rhoades on April 20, 2019 at 12:39 pm

    Mr. Howland, stopping at you door to chat was always good medicine during my two years at Haskell. You always greeted people attentively, respectfully and lovingly with a radiance that left one shimmering with value after visiting with you. You gave strenght and hope to the weary and added warmth to even the brightest day. Thank you. May you dance in heaven.



  13. Bonnie Buzzard on April 20, 2019 at 12:42 pm

    I loved Mr. Hollands class! He was a wonderful teacher in and outside the classroom. He had a great sense of humor.



  14. Bonnie Buzzard on April 20, 2019 at 12:43 pm

    I loved Mr. Howlands class! He was a wonderful teacher in and outside the classroom. He had a great sense of humor.



  15. Richard and Agatha Tresky on April 20, 2019 at 3:03 pm

    Our condolences to Val and family. It was an honor to play football along side this incredible half-back. On the field, John consistently played with heart and true determination. John was know as our “Scat-back” because of his quick speed. Off the field, John was a true gentleman: always friendly, a man of honor and grit. Memories of John will endure.



  16. David and Lynda Juencke on April 20, 2019 at 9:50 pm

    Val, so sorry for your loss, may your beautiful memories give you comfort .



  17. Travis Schuler on April 21, 2019 at 9:33 am

    We all enjoyed John and his Great personality. We enjoyed Johns personal Peace that he shared with all People.



  18. Bill Blodgett on April 21, 2019 at 10:35 am

    Sorry to hear of Johns passing. I met John in the 80s we did long distance bicycle hobby/parts building. He had a heart of gold and helped me out a lot.



  19. Linda Firkins Dillenback and Harold Dillenback on April 21, 2019 at 4:13 pm

    So sorry to hear of John’s passing. We attended Troy High School and were both class members of John’s, Class of 1962. Our condolences to his entire family.



  20. MIKE AND ROSEMARY on April 21, 2019 at 4:22 pm

    May he rest in peace…Mike Hadl…



  21. Rich Edmiston on April 21, 2019 at 8:23 pm

    I am honored and blessed to have known John, and words cannot begin to express
    the sympathy we feel on his untimely death. He will be deeply missed. My sincerest
    condolences to the Howland and Ramirez families.



  22. Gary Long on April 21, 2019 at 9:39 pm

    Rest in peace my dear friend. Thank you for sharing your passion and knowledge of interests we shared in common. You will be with me forever more.



  23. Carole Tomlinson on April 22, 2019 at 11:30 am

    Decades ago, John nominated me for an award that I won; I’ve proudly listed it on my CV ever since. He was an unforgettable colleague, and I’ll always remember him with gratitude and good cheer.



  24. Michael Clement & Family on April 22, 2019 at 2:02 pm

    Sorry for your loss, I remember John when he was in Horton, Kansas



  25. Sandy Calhoon Lockhart on April 22, 2019 at 5:48 pm

    Val, my most sincere condolences are being sent to you. You are in my thoughts and prayers! Cherish those beautiful memories. R.I..P. John



  26. Marilyn Howland Nordstrom on April 22, 2019 at 6:06 pm

    Val and Family,
    We are so sorry for your loss. John was one great man and a dear friend to so many. He will be deeply missed.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this most difficult time. Just know that John is in God’s arms now.
    Deepest Sympathy. Love,
    Marilyn Howland Nordstrom & Family



  27. Nona Payestewa on April 22, 2019 at 9:08 pm

    To John’s family. John has always been a friend to my family. He taught my oldest son to drive, he taught my other two children at Haskell. Most of all, he was the blond guy sitting in the first row at our wedding 47 years ago. It took us months to figure out who he was. Our neighbor across the hall, who along with his wife Val became our friends. Our whole family is saddened by the loss and our condolences to You, Val and your family.



  28. Coach Jim Mathis on April 22, 2019 at 11:21 pm

    Jim Mathis: C of E ’61

    My sympathy goes out to the wonderful Howland family. It was great watching John play football on a couple of undefeated KCAC College of Emporia championship football teams. Later it was an honor to serve with him on the C of E Hall of Fame committee that John was the chairman. There may not have been a H of F if John had not stepped up to lead this committee.



  29. Marilyn (Hetzel) Cuch on April 23, 2019 at 11:17 am

    Mr. Howland will always be in my memories as the respected colleague who truly understood the needs of his students. He served others and showed his support to in ways we were not aware of until we saw the twinkle of laughter and kindness in his face. He stands as a testament to having a good laugh along with a strong cup of coffee will get you through the rough patches a lot easier. Mr. Howland was a gentleman and great leader. He is truly missed. My deepest condolences to the kind Howland family.



  30. Sharon Condon on April 24, 2019 at 10:45 pm

    I have many fond memories of working with John at Haskell. He was always such a kind, thoughtful colleague, always lightening the mood with his wit and humor. I used to call him John-Boy, and I think he got a kick out of it. I’m saddened to hear of his passing, but will carry only positive memories of this gentle soul. My condolences to Val and the rest of his family. May he rest in peace.



  31. Quentin Hays on April 25, 2019 at 12:14 am

    I grew up across the street from the Howland family, moving away nearly 25 years ago, but returning regularly to visit. John will forever be part of my memories of Lawrence; coming out of the house in the morning and shouting a hello across the street, catching up and hearing my stories, eventually meeting my children. A good man, he was what everyone hopes to have in a neighbor and friend. I’ll remember cars and bikes, family and friends, a life well-lived. Sincerest condolences to Jay, Betsy and Val.



  32. Shaun dutro on April 25, 2019 at 7:14 pm

    I was deeply sgocked and saddened to hear the news of mr. Howlands passing. He alwaysade me feel welcome when i firat came to haskell. His class was ky first class of the day and always made sure i had what i needed for my college adjustment. We always had some joke to tell no matter gow god aweful it was but it always brightened our day. When he retired haskell lost an extremely good assit to the university however on excellent terms, and his passing is a travesty of a loss of a lifelong friend. My sincerest condolences and sympathies to the family. And he will he sorely missed



  33. Brian Jones on April 26, 2019 at 1:37 pm

    I throughly enjoyed my time as one of Mr. Howlands psychology students at Haskell. Mr. Howlands teaching style was very engaging and made class interesting. I’m fortunate to have been a former student of John Howland. I always remember him saying “ an little Johnny” in psychology class 🙂



  34. Pat McAfee on April 26, 2019 at 5:55 pm

    “Preach” will be missed by all. Relatives, friends and students of life!
    Played against John in high school, knew him as a coach, teacher and must of all a friend!
    May John rest in peace as he is with the Lord!



  35. Pat McAfee on April 26, 2019 at 5:56 pm

    “Preach” will be missed by all. Relatives, friends and students of life!
    Played against John in high school, knew him as a coach, teacher and most of all a friend!
    May John rest in peace as he is with the Lord!



  36. Don Cackler on April 27, 2019 at 3:36 pm

    John Howland was my Horton High School coach in football, basketball and track. We re-connected when he taught at Haskell Indian Nations University while he was teaching. He will be sorely missed. Blessing to you and your family.



  37. Mary Geary-Begnoche on April 27, 2019 at 9:53 pm

    John was a wonderful man that I am grateful I met. He set up a pasture for our horses across from wakarusa school after we moved from Virginia to Kansas. He then decided a barn was needed, so he built one. Using trees as the poles, without cutting them down, was great. He’d happily be mowing the pasture on his tractor, that always had flat tires because of the hedge trees, with ticks falling on him like rain. His sense of humor was great and his work with the Haskell students was always above and beyond. He will be sorely missed by anyone who ever met him. He was truly a special person.



  38. Dale Roberton on April 29, 2019 at 2:05 pm

    I have felt much sadness upon hearing of John’s passing. I have been friends with John since we were 7or8 years old. We came to know each other through our older brothers who were classmates in school. I attended high school with John. We were teammates on the THS football team that was undefeated for two years straight. We also ran track together. John was an excellent athlete. He was very strong and fast. John wrote a letter to me in his early adult life professing his faith in Jesus christ. I know he was a christian man and lived his life that way. He has fallen asleep to young and I know he will be greatly missed by all who have known him. His old friend Dale Roberton.



  39. Warren Cluck on May 6, 2019 at 5:11 pm

    Warren cluck very sorry to here went to school together at troy high was friend and great times sorry to hear about his death



  40. Diann Bevitt on May 13, 2019 at 1:38 pm

    Mr Howland was my drivers Ed teacher in Burlingame. We all enjoyed his class, he was always happy and smiling! Rest In Peace!



  41. LeAna R Shannon on May 22, 2019 at 1:46 pm

    John was a great guy. He was my Driver’s Ed teacher and health teacher at Horton. He also run the pool and taught life saving.
    Sorry for your loss Valerie God bless and keep you and your family.



  42. Kerry (Girty) Cuny & Frances Girty on May 25, 2019 at 11:07 pm

    Val, I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He worked alongside my father in Parker Hall. He was a blessing. My father used to come home with stories that John & Mike would share with him at work. He thought very much of him. And I believe he even taught Sherry how to drive. Our thoughts are with you & your family.



  43. Timothy Goeders on June 3, 2020 at 1:24 pm

    John was such a great guy, an constant encourager of others and a true entrepreneur. John was a great man and a truly kind person. My condolences to his family and other friends.



  44. Tim Ladwig on March 7, 2021 at 10:28 am

    John was our assistant coach at Roosevelt High School in Emporia. Hi was a wonderful coach and person. He was also a witness to me and other team members by the way he cared for us as people and his confession of faith in Christ. I’m very thankful to him for helping me come to faith in Christ myself a couple years after he coached us. Blessings and Peace to you, Coach Howland, in the presence of your Savior!



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