Jerry R. Howe, 88, of Winamac, IN passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at Hickory Creek Healthcare in Winamac. He was born on March 27, 1931 in Winamac to the late Theodore and Mildred Robinson Howe. Jerry graduated from Winamac High School in 1949. On November 18, 1951, Jerry married Mary Ash who passed away on September 23, 1991. They were married for nearly 40 years and were blessed with four sons, Rob, Mike, Don and Lee. Jerry endured a hardship in 2008, when Lee lost his battle with ALS. On August 4, 1993, Jerry married Joann Hoffman who passed away on October 4, 2014.
Jerry proudly served in the US Coast Guard from 1952-1955. He was a longtime member of the Winamac American Legion. He was a very knowledgeable country music fan and enjoyed attending country music concerts, especially those at the Blueberry Festival. Jerry had a true passion and understanding for the game of baseball that he passed on to future generations. During his youth, it became evident he was a talented athlete, playing baseball and basketball in school. When he was 19 years old, he was signed to a Minor League Baseball contract with the St. Louis Browns. During his time in the US Coastguard, he played baseball and basketball. Jerry was instrumental in the creation of the Winamac Little League and coached for over 25 years during which time he touched many lives.
Jerry was a hardworking and dedicated father and family man. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by:
Rob (Connie) Howe, Winamac, IN Son
Mike Howe, Rockmart, GA Son
Don (Sue) Howe, Winamac, IN Son
Julie (Kenny) Howe Overwein, Florence, KY Daughter-in-law
Jeff Hoffman, Kewanna, IN Step Son
Julie (Dan) Middleton, Warsaw, IN Step Daughter
7 Grandchildren: Eric, Evan, Molly, Donny, Beth, Ashlee, and Andrew
8 Great Grandchildren
Joy (Bill) Hintz, Winamac, IN Sister
Many Nieces and Nephews
Preceded in death by:
Theodore and Mildred Robinson Howe, Parents
Mary Ash Howe, First Wife
Joann Hoffman Howe, Second Wife
Lee Howe, Son
Sherry Howe, Daughter-in-law
Funeral Services will be held at 3 PM EDT Sunday, March 15, 2020 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN with Rev. Edward Clark officiating.
Burial will take place at Winamac Cemetery in Winamac, IN. The American Legion and VFW will provide Military Graveside Services.
Visitation will be from 4-7 PM EDT Saturday, March 14, 2020 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN and one hour prior to services Sunday at the funeral home.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Hickory Creek Healthcare in Winamac or ALS Association Kentucky Chapter.
Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.
