Thomas Howell
July 26, 1931 ~ July 6, 2018
Tom Howell, 86, of Stephan, passed away Friday, July 6, 2018 at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre.
Funeral service was held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 13, 2018 at Immaculate Conception Catholic, Stephan with Father Christianus Henricks officiating. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service. Burial followed at Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis.
Thomas Buddy Howell was born July 26, 1931 in Baltimore, Maryland to Thomas and Lillian (Smith) Howell. He graduated high school in Baltimore. He went on to serve eight years in the United States Air Force; four of those years being stationed in Japan. He was honorably discharge. On March 29, 1956, he married Virginia Touche in Rapid City. To this union, seven children were born: Diego, Kateri, Juan, Martina, Tom, Jr., Tekakwitha, and Christina. The family resided at Fort Thompson for a short time before settling in Stephan, South Dakota. Tom served his whole life as an ordained lay minister in the Catholic faith. He served the Immaculate Conception Church in Stephan; retiring at the age of 82.
In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, helping others, and serving the church. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church.
He is survived by his children: Kateria of Omaha, NE, Juan of Denver, CO, Martina of Milford, PA, Tom, Jr. of Huron, SD, Tekakwitha of Mason City, IA, and Christina of Lake Mills, IA; grandchildren: George Comes Flying, Brandon Comes Flying, Vanessa Voice, Gerrit Voice, John Voice, McKenzie Comes Flying, Darin Klebsch, Alicia Howell, Stephan Howell, Chase Ingledue, Taylor Ingledue, JD Howell, Gavin Howell, Dalton Howell, Ethan Howell, Trent Felicia, and Teanna Dion; many great grandchildren; and siblings: Lenore, Jean, and Harrold.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Virginia in 2004; son, Diego Howell; and grandson, Dennis Comes Flying.
Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Tom’s arrangements.
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I graduated in 1974 and I had the privilege of working after school with Tom, what a hard worker and man of faith! at my class reunion a couple of years ago I had a chance of visiting with him, he was the same man I remember. My condolences to the Family and God Bless.
It’s with profound sadness to learn that Tom is now in his heavenly home. While I rejoice that he has achieved his life-time goal, still I’ll always miss his friendship and ministerial support over many years. May he rest in peace and continue to reach out to many others from his new home. God love his kindness and sincere loving care for so many. In Him, Fr. Tom W., scj
My deepest condolences to the family my prayers are with you
Prayers and condolences to the families.
Tek and Christina and family I am sorry to hear about your dad… prayers are being sent to you and your families through today and days ahead as you grieve. May god wrap his arms around you and comfort you. Cherish all the memories you have. Prayers to you both.
Sending hugs to each of you. And saying some special prayers for you. I have so many good memories of Tom, and I learned so much from him about serving God. I am going to miss him. Well done good and faithful servant, go in Peace!
RIP Tom, my old High School Boss (I worked for him cleaning up high school classrooms, after school) he was strict and precise! but that was for a reason and later on in life I realized that, he was teaching us the ropes and I appreciate that. 🙂
You have my deepest sympathy. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Sending hugs and prayers to Tom’s family. While working and living at Stephan, I spent time with Tom and his family. He was a mentor to many, a good friend and such a respectful guy. I know he will be missed. Beverly King
TOM WAS A GREAT AND KIND GUY. I USED TO VISIT WITH HIM, VIRGINIA, AND THE 2 YOUNGEST DAUGHTERS EACH TIME THEY CAME TO TOWN FOR GROCERIES AT AL’S OASIS. I PLAY DARTS AND HE SAID HE LIKED TO PLAY TOO. HE WAS ALWAYS HAPPY-GO-LUCKY AND ALWAYS HAD SOME ADVICE FOR ME WHEN I WAS YOUNG.