TSgt. Donald Howard

On February 15, 2024, Donald joined his parents and siblings in heaven. Most who knew him called him Dad or Grandpa. 

On January 10, 1950, in the small town of Cleveland, Texas, Donald and his twin Ronald were born. Their family soon moved to Huntsville, Texas where he graduated high school. In 1969, Donald enlisted in the United States Air Force. One year later, he married his wife, Mary Nell Howard. In 1972 he and his wife welcomed the first born, Kathy. In 1976, their son, David, was born. Donald retired from the military in 1990, after 20 years of service. After retiring, he worked several jobs until becoming disabled due to an on the job accident. 

In 1992, Donald became a grandfather. He loved being a grandfather and it soon became a large part of his identity. He has two grandchildren, Elijah and Shelley Kimmel. He also has three great-grand kids, Isaac, Jaxson, and Sadie. Donald had always dreamed of owning land. In 1996, that dream became a reality when he moved his entire family to a ten acre home in a rural community near Seguin, Texas. Donald and his twin brother spent months clearing the land with hand tools.

Donald is preceded in death by his father David Howard, his mother Madeline McClees, his brothers David, Jerry, and Ronald Howard, and his sister Linda Howard.

He is survived by his wife Mary Nell Howard, his daughter, Kathy Apshire, and his son David Howard. He is also survived by his grand kids, great-grand kids, and many friends and family members whom he loved deeply. He will be missed by many!

A graveside service witl full military honors will be held at Fort Sam National Cemetery on March 6, 2024 at 1:45 pm. Services will take place in Shelter 5.