Howard E. Woodward

Howard E. Woodward, 90, passed away Thursday, October 16, 2008 at the Sweet Life of Rosehill.

Howard was born October 13, 1918 on the banks of the Waukerusa River near Clinton, Kansas. He was the fifth child of Carl and Helen Woodward, a pioneer couple. Howard had the usual boyhood life on the farm, with lots of hard work. He graduated 8th grade from a one room school house. He left the shelter of his home at the age of 16 to work his way through Lawrence High School. Howard enlisted in the Kansas National Guard as a Private at the age of 18. In 1939 Howard enrolled as an Engineering student at the University of Kansas. He had to interrupt his studies in 1940 to serve on active duty with the United States Army for six years, including two years in the European Theater. He met his wife of 53 years, Mary Springer, in 1942. Howard was wounded in 1944, and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. His last assignment on active duty was as the Commanding Officer of a German Prisoner of war camp in Naples, Italy.

After being separated from active duty as a First Lieutenant, Howard returned to K.U. and completed his Bachelors in Chemical Engineering in 1949. During his career as an engineer, he served as President of MidAmerica Rubber Co., Vice President of J.B. Supply Co., Director of Engineering of Eskridge Engineering Co., Senior Engineer at Steel of Olathe Manufacturing Co. and served at a Technical Sales Engineer for Gates Rubber Co. of Denver for thirty years. Howard also enjoyed a lengthy career as a Reserve Officer before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1972. His last duty station was as an instructor of Officers Career Course and Command and General Staff subject.

He was a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus, Member of Disabled American Veterans Wyandotte County Memorial Chapter #1, the American Legion, and the Reserve Officers Association. He was a leader of several community organizations most noteworthy, Bishop Miege Boosters Club, who constructed the Miege Football Stadium under his leadership. His devotion to family and friends are a mark of his honor. His standard answer to a cry for help was "No problem, Let's do it!"

Visitation and Funeral Service

Visitation will be 10 am to 12 noon Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be 12 noon at the Church. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.