"I knew Howdy for many years. He always had a smile and never said an unkind word. I enjoyed working with him on may projects at Drake Park over the years. God bless all of you. You are in my prayers."
In loving memory of
Howard 'Howdy' B. Knouse
May 25, 1936 - January 27, 2017
HOWARD 'HOWDY' KNOUSE
MUSCATINE, Iowa - Howard B. 'Howdy' Knouse, 80, of Muscatine, passed away on Friday, January 27, 2017, at Simpson Memorial Home in West Liberty.
Private Burial will take place in Oakdale Cemetery in Wilton. Visitation will be from 3 until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 31, 2017, at the Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the family in care of Mindy Strause. Online condolences: www.wittichfuneralhome.com
Howdy was born on May 25, 1936, in Muscatine, the son of Howard O. and Kathryn B. Weikert Knouse. His first marriage was to Darlene Zaehringer in 1957, and he later married Judy Shoultz in 1964.
He was a self-employed contractor and mason, starting his work career with his father at K&H Concrete. He started Knouse Masonry which later became Knouse Construction which he operated for 40 years. For 13 years he owned Island CB Sales. He owned Galesburg Auto Mart, and started Muscatine Tire and Wheel with Jim Lowe. He was also a Wausau Homes dealer in the area for 13 years.
He loved bowling, woodworking, and spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed doing family movies and had kept a diary every day for over 50 years.
Those left to honor his memory include his children, Perrian Locke of Muscatine, Christopher Knouse (Melanie) of Toledo, and Lisa Pratt (Jerry), Brad H. Knouse, and Mindy Strause, all of Muscatine; 19 grandchildren, Aaron, Nicholas, Jordan, Spencer, Ashley, Ashlynn, Mikayla, Tanner, Cordell, Wyatt, Lynnlee, Sami Jo, Shelby, Drake, Drew, Lanie, Aubrey, Noah, and Alex; and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Sharon McDaniel.
Tributes
"I have so many wonderful memories of Uncle Howdy....always there with open arms, a smile and a hug all with the video recorder on his shoulder. To say that he will be missed is an understatement. To my cousins....I am so sorry that you all have to go thru this...with the love and support from family and friends my hope is that your pain will be eased. The pearly gates where wide open waiting for him to enter and the light was shining brightly, may eternal peace forever be with Uncle Howdy until we meet again. I love you all. "
"Lifting you all up in prayer during this difficult time . Sincerely Rondalyn "
"Howdy is remembered fondly. It seems whenever I would run into him, he would have have a funny saying that would make you smile. Prayers to the family."
"Howdy is in my first childhood memories. I was only 4 when he became part of our family. The day he met my parents he swooped my up on his shoulders and it was love at first sight!!! Every holiday memory as I was growing up he was there with a hug and smile. When dad died he became a granddad for my kids. Sooooooooooo many fond memories and kind words . These are now treasures. Thanks Howdy and blessings to you'r loved ones. Suzi"
"I've know Howdy since junior High,always a little ornery and a lot of fun to be around,a lot of fun memories, rest in peace Howdy God be with you in journey home. Martha McCracken Marx"
"My thoughts & prayers are with your family. Howdy was a great man with a wonderful smile & sparkle in his eyes. He will be missed. Love, The Murphy Family"
"I was a CNA at Lutheran Homes. I enjoyed talking with Howdy and helping take care of him. My deepest condolences and prayers for you all as you go through this difficult time. "
"Howdy was a happy man. Enjoyed life, family and friends. I grew up with howdy and his family on woodlawn. Lots of memories. Rip .. howdy. And prayers for your family. Linda messinger Harris"
"Howdy was always friendly. Happy. Enjoyed life as well. I grew up in the same neighborhood with Howdy and his family. Lots of fun times. Rip. Howdy and prayers for the family."
"I will never forget the kind words Howdy always had for me. He lit up the room and was truly genuine in how he cared for people. I always knew he'd have his video camera at every family event and tried hard to stay away from it! He will be missed, but we all have wonderful memories of Howdy! Love, EaVon"
"We would like to express our sincere sympathy in the loss of Howdy. ~My memories of Howdy go back to grade school. What fun he was...ornery might be a good word for him. He came to my house when we were young and played a musical instrument for me...what fun. ~ May your memories bring you comfort and may you have peace as you go on without him. ~We will hold you in our thoughts and prayers. Kathy and Ron Marshall"
"I will always remember Howdy's great smile. I know he is at peace and catching up with Joe. My deepest sympathy to all of his family and friends."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with your families during this most difficult time. "