Laverne “L. J.” Howe
In Memory of Laverne “L. J.” Howe
Laverne “L. J.” Howe, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on April 18, 2026, at his home in Red Oak. He was born on December 2, 1941, in Lawler, Iowa. L. J. was truly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
L. J. married the love of his life, Norma, on April 9, 1966, in Killeen, Texas. He often said it was love at first sight when he first saw her, and together they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army for 21 years, retiring in 1984. Following his military service, L. J. worked various jobs before fully retiring in 2004.
L. J. was a man who cherished his family above all else. He was incredibly proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and found great joy in each of them—even when distance made visits difficult. He had a great sense of humor and was known for his ability to fix just about anything, especially vehicles, and for his talent in building things. He also loved sharing stories from his younger years, including his well-remembered high school prank of moving an outhouse several feet one foggy night.
He is survived by his loving wife, Norma Howe, of the home; sons, Bryan Howe of Red Oak and Darren Howe and wife Valerie of North Adams, Massachusetts; daughter, Kathy Howe of Red Oak; sister, Eileen Wander of South Elgin, Illinois; brothers, Duane Howe of Galesville, Wisconsin, Eugene Howe of New Lisbon, Wisconsin, Kenneth Howe of Springhill, Florida, Vincent Howe of Galesville, Wisconsin, and Larry Howe of Hayward, Wisconsin; along with six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace and Esther Howe, and his brothers, Robert Howe and Gregory Howe.
Pallbearers will be Bryan Howe, Nick Hill, George Hawthorne, Rusty Hill, Richard Hill, and James Ellison.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, at Baldwin Cemetery under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.
L. J.’s life was one of dedication to his country, his family, and the simple joys that made life meaningful. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.