first working alongside his father, and later with June 7, 1944 – October 10, 2025
Harold “Lee” Howell, 81, of Howard, Kansas, passed away on October 10, 2025. He was born on June 7, 1944, in Winfield, Kansas, to Harold Logan Howell and Lillian Lucille Bonnell Howell.
Lee graduated from Howard High School in 1962. He then worked construction for his father before proudly joining the U.S. Army where he was stationed in Germany. After his military service, he began a lifelong career in construction— several companies including Shore and Sons, George Myers Construction, and Sherwood Construction. After retiring, Lee found a need to stay busy and worked for Harrod’s Inc.
Lee grew up in a family that performed at rodeos, where he showcased his skills in trick roping. However, it’s been said that he would rather chase girls at those events than perform along with the family.
In January of 1967, Lee married the love of his life, Kay Thurman and soon added two daughters to complete their loving family. Lee and Kay built a wonderful life for themselves and their daughters in Howard. In order to provide for Kay and the girls, Lee often worked away from home. Although Lee did not receive a college education, through his hard work and eagerness to learn, he was able to achieve the position of superintendent of multi-million-dollar construction projects.
Lee’s daughters were the light of his life and the center of his universe, then they gave him grandchildren who took over that role. Attending his grandchildren’s sporting events gave him immense pride and joy. Lee also enjoyed tinkering with cars, refurbishing old pendulum clocks, KU basketball, and golf.
Lee will be remembered for his dedication to provide for and protect his family, his hard nose approach to work, and his orneriness.
Lee is survived by his wife Kay Howell; daughters Gina Wilson (husband Craig Wilson), and Stacy Howell; grandchildren Tristen Wilson, Rae’Ven Loudermilk, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and Devin Loudermilk; sister Pat McKinley; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his grandson Damon Lee Wilson, whom he greatly missed.
Cremation has been requested with a graveside Celebration of Life service being held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:30 am at the Cresco Cemetery. The family has established a memorial for American Legion Carter-Rader Post 149, those can be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home 206 E. Washington, P.O. Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349
