Howard Elmer Amundson, 86 of Kensett

Howard Elmer Amundson, 86 of Kensett passed away Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Westview Care Center in Britt.

Services will be 10:30am Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 1st Ave. North, Clear Lake, IA 50428 with Rev. Linda Johnson Prestholt officiating. Inurnment will be in Clear Lake Cemetery.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Howard was born December 20, 1938 in Worth County, the son of Leroy and Agnes (Sampson) Amundson. He attended Hanlontown Schools, graduating in1957. He continued his education at Mason City Junior College, in their auto mechanics program. Howard soon began his service in the United States Army, where he served in Florida during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In 1963 he was honorably discharged and returned home to the family farm. A steward of the land, Howard took great pride in caring for the family farm beside his father. He served as a caretaker for his parents over the years, a role he fulfilled with love and dedication. Following his father’s passing in 2004, Howard retired from the farm, and found his home in Kensett.

Howard had a quiet, humble demeanor but was always ready with a sharp wit and a great sense of humor that could light up any room. His love for the outdoors was evident in the hours he spent fishing, gardening, or simply enjoying a peaceful country drive. A lifelong learner, he stayed up to date on current events and was a devoted fan of Western TV shows. A proud veteran, Howard cherished his time in the Army and later found joy in giving back through the Kensett Lions Club and American Legion. Music was another of his interests through the years- he attended Buddy Holly’s final performance, “the day the music died,” and enjoyed 1950s music throughout his life. A longtime member of Elk Creek Lutheran Church, Howard’s faith and kindness were constants, as was his dedication to family. Whether spending time with his family, or simply sharing a laugh, he embodied patience, generosity, and love.

He is survived by his nieces and nephews, Rhonda Nowell, of Albany, OR, Susan Amundson, of Austin, MN, Jane (Craig) Van Horn, of Mason City, Sara (Don) Finch, of Britt, Eric (Kendra) Amundson, of Leland, Roberta Sjostrom, of Fair Oaks, CA, Mike (Cynthia) Amundson, of Egan, MN, Lewis (Jaime Fuller) Amundson, of Silver Spring, MD, James (Denise) Amundson of Mogadore, OH, Donna (Mark) Mueller, of Chagrin Falls, OH; many great-nieces and nephews; as well as extended relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by parents; siblings, Leonard (Mary Lou), Chester (Wilma) and Hazel Russel; a nephew, Stephen Russel; as well as extended family.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel. 641-357-2193. ColonialChapels.com