Kenneth Wayne Howard

Kenneth “Ken” Wayne Howard, 78, of Piedmont, MO, passed away peacefully at his home, the evening of June 3, 2024, after several months of declining health. He was born in St. Louis, MO, August 2, 1945, to parents Joseph Hugh and Edith Opal (Whitener) Howard.

Ken was a quiet, gentle man who loved his family and delighted in a challenging game of chess. In his younger years, Ken was an avid bicyclist and could slay at ping pong. He was a carpenter by trade and spent his working years at Morgan Whiteman in St. Louis, MO.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of fifty-six years, Janet Arlyn (Pape); three sons: Randal Wayne Howard of Piedmont, Russell Alan Howard and wife Dana of St. Charles, Nathan Joseph Howard and wife Amy of Dardenne Prairie; one daughter: Arlyn Elizabeth Fleshman and husband Brent of Centerton, AR; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one sister: Audrey Howard of Winter Park, FL; a host of extended family and friends.

The family would like to thank the medical teams at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and Clark’s Mountain Nursing Center in Piedmont, the hospice team, the Piedmont Fire Department and Clearwater EMT’s for their patient and compassionate care during Ken’s long illness. The family would also like to thank their family and friends for their continued support and prayers through this difficult time. Ken will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Visitation was held at 10:00 am, Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont Chapel. Funeral service followed at 11:00 am, also in the Piedmont Chapel. Pastor Melvin Meade ministered to the family. Chris Holt, Russell Howard, Darrin Pape, Vernon Pape, David Pape, Ryan Gaddy, Tren Groat, and Troy Groat served as pallbearers. Burial was in McGee Chapel Cemetery, Glenallen, MO. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

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