Howard "Howdy" Stearns

Howard “Howdy” Stearns, 75, of Webster City, died on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa surrounded by his loved ones and listening to his favorite Motown music. Visitation will be held on Sunday August 25, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Webster City where Howdy was a member. An additional visitation will be held on Monday, August 26, from 9:00-9:45 AM at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, followed by a memorial service at 10:00 AM. The family has chosen Boman Funeral Home (www.bomanfh.com) to care for their needs.

 Howdy was born on August 12, 1949, in Webster City, Iowa to Ralph and Dorothy (McKee) Stearns. He graduated from Webster City High School in 1967 and went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from the University of Northern Iowa, in 1971. That same year he married Gretchen Nessa, with whom he had two children before they later divorced. In 1993 Howdy married Barbara Larson. Together they enjoyed time spent with family and friends in Webster City, Balsam Lake (Wisconsin) and Clear Lake. Howdy and Barb spent many happy years together until her passing in 2021.

 Howdy worked at United Co-op in Webster City for over 40 years and until retiring in 2014. He held various roles including general laborer, commodities specialist, and manager. His career at the Co-op was marked by his dedication, adaptability, and connections with farmers and co-workers.

 Howdy was a laid back and easy going guy who enjoyed the simple things in life. He cherished his relationships with others and loved BIG. Family get-togethers were important to him and always included laughs, drinks, and great food. Howdy was proud of his grandchildren, spending many hours attending their dance and sporting events throughout the years. Remaining active and social, Howdy participated in the local slow-pitch softball league for years, was a long time member at Fuller Hall, and enjoyed being outside working on his yard. He had a deep appreciation for Motown music, accompanied with signature dance moves he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Later in life, Howdy enjoyed spending time “at the lake” in Clear Lake, IA, where he had a close-knit group of friends who gathered for social events and card games. 

 Howdy hated to see a good time end so time together usually ended with a big hug and a “Love ya, kiddo” and “I’ll have my people call your people” so the next get together was planned.

 His family includes: daughter Marcy (Wade) Nelson of Gilbert, IA and their children Riley, Bella, and Brooklyn; son Travis (Tresa) Stearns, of Marion, IA and their children Addison, Luke, and Logan; three step children: Eric Larson, and his children Grace, and Gabbie of Webster City, Jessie (Scott) Bailey and their children Erin and Claire of Webster City, and Ben Larson of Webster City, IA; sister Anne Wiebe of Des Moines, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Barb and special friend Mel.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the family at: 1025 North Terrace Dr. in Webster City, IA 50595 to be dispersed to organizations and places that meant a lot to Howdy.