Michael Jerome Howard, 81, died August 17, 2023, at Hospice House, Hutchinson.  He was born June 25, 1942, in Shreveport, LA, to Thomas Eugene "Gene" and Lillian Margaret (Lockhart) Howard.

Michael graduated from Garden City High School in 1960.  He served in the United States Army Reserves, retiring as a Master Sergeant after 20 years of service.  Michael also retired as a service technician from Pitney Bowes.  He enjoyed antique cars, hot rods, motorcycles, racing, coffee at Spangles, and spending time with his family and friends.  Michael was a member of the American Legion Lysle Rishel Post #68, Church of the Holy Cross, and Knights of Columbus, all of Hutchinson.

On October 6, 1966, he married Phyllis Ann Ary, in Garden City.

Michael is survived by:  his wife of almost 57 years, Phyllis; sons, Steven Howard (Stephanie) and Shane Howard; daughter, Sonya Howard; grandchildren, Bryant Howard, Alissa Johnson, Austin Howard, Joshua Gandham, and Ava Gandham; sisters, Elizabeth Ann Howard Lewis, Margaret Howard Payne Hall, and Mary Howard LaFitte (Don); brothers, Thomas Howard (Kathy) and Patrick Howard (Brenda); sisters-in-law, Cora Howard and Theresa Howard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by:  his parents; brothers, James Andrew Howard, Eugene Mark Howard, Leslie Howard, and Timothy Howard.

Parish Rosary will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 24, 2023.  Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m., both at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Road, Hutchinson, with Father William P. Stuever officiating. Graveside service will be 3:00 p.m. Thursday, August 24, 2023, at Wayne Cemetery, Lewis, with military honors conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard.   Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, with the family present from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

Click here to view Michael's Rosary and Mass You will need to click on "live" once you get to this screen.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or American Legion Lysle Rishel Post #68, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS  67501.