John W. Howard

John W. Howard, age 67, known to many as “Big John” formerly of East Springfield, Pa., died peacefully, Thursday afternoon, May 17, 2018 at Edinboro Manor where he had been residing since 2014.

John was born on September 26, 1950 in Erie, Pa., the son of the late Chester and Florence M. (Nesbitt) Howard.  John served our country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War time era.

He retired after 38 years of dedicated service from El Kem Metals in Ashtabula, Ohio and because he wanted something to do, he worked at Giant Eagle in Girard for five years.  John was a member of the Girard American Legion and the Farm Bureau. He enjoyed dairy farming. It was a life passion to him. He also enjoyed hunting and was an avid bowler and participated in many bowling leagues in the area with his top score being a 299.  No matter where John went, he could always strike up a conversation with someone. He was a natural people person.

John is survived by four children:  Sam (Nancy L.) Howard of Kingsville, OH; Samantha Howard of Madison, OH; Wayne and Seth Howard both of Conneaut, OH; and two brothers:  Charles (Janet) Howard and Elmer (Robin) Howard both of East Springfield, Pa. Six Grandchildren and two Great-Grandchildren also survive and many nieces and nephews.