Luke R. Howard passed away peacefully on September 17, 2021 surrounded by his family.
He was born July 13th 1990 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Huntingburg to Jon & Christina Howard. He graduated from Northeast Dubois High School in 2009 before attending Vincennes University, leaving with a degree in Heavy Diesel Mechanics in 2011. He worked for Dubois Co. Equipment as a machine fabricator.
Luke settled down in his hometown of Celestine, buying a house in the middle of town. He enjoyed being a part of his community, volunteering much of his time at the Celestine Park. If he wasn’t involved with a benefit at the clubhouse or helping orchestrate the Annual Jeep Run, he was off lending a hand to a neighbor in need.
He seemed to know every word to every country song ever written, singing along as he drove with his friends through the back roads on Sunday afternoons. He thrived being outdoors; hunting, fishing, archery and golf. He was gifted with a quick wit and always had a one-liner in his back pocket to keep the room laughing. He could be stubborn and carried a tough exterior, but in all reality, he had the warmest heart and the biggest smile.
His gentle, caring personality will be greatly missed by his parents Jon & Christina Howard of Celestine, his brother Eric of Chicago, his grandparents: Nancy Merkel of Celestine and Ray & Janet Howard of Jasper, his aunts & uncles, numerous cousins and countless friends.
His long-standing relationship with God gives us faith that he’ll be watching over us until we meet again.
A celebration of life is set for September 22, 2021 at Northside Christian Church in Huntingburg. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM EST with a service to follow at 1:00 PM EST. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to the Celestine Park.
Simple Cremation Evansville is entrusted with care.
Ruth Harkness says
Jon, Chris, Eric and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers for comfort and peace at this difficult time. God Bless you!🙏🙏🙏
Gina G Young says
Jon & Christina my heart hurts for you two! No parent should have to lay their child to rest! It was an honor taking care of Luke! Loved his smile and witty humor! Hugs to you all!
Regina Brant says
Chris and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. 🙏🙏
Miriam Habif Gelfond says
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Jane Weidenbenner says
Jon and Christina and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Luke’s passing tonight. I loved your son’s smile and generous heart. He will surely be missed by you and so many. God Bless Luke and welcome him home Lord. One of the best and far too young to go. Jane Weidenbenner
Sherri Minor Scrogham says
I am so sorry. Our hearts go out to you. Prayers for comfort.
David huebner and family says
Sorry for the loss of your son, May he rest in peace.
Samantha Witte says
We are so very sorry for your loss. Luke was a wonderful friend and will be greatly missed. Continued prayers for the entire family. Love always – Cole, Sam, and Odie
Chris Lyons says
My prayers go out to the family. Words are not adequate to express, so I can only say this, each footprint is a moment in time. Sometimes He carries us, other times there are many footprints walking with us. Each, a moment in time.
Cindy Shaw says
Heartfelt love and condolences to all who knew Luke. May those special memories bring a smile to your face. Jon and Chris, what an example of love and care you have been to all who have been a part of this journey. May God grant you comfort and peace. Aunt Cindy❤️
The Spooner family says
Sending prayers for comfort and strength.
Courtney Hopf (Ahlfield) says
Sending many prayers of comfort and peace to your family. You are all in my thoughts. 🙏
Sandra James says
Luke’s Smile is what I remember. He knew his family n friends loved him dearly. Hugs n Prayers for you All. Rest in the Assurance You Will Be Reunited Someday at those Heavenly Gates. sj
Angie Marks says
Jon, Chris and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Luke as a happy spirit with a big beautiful smile for everyone. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with your family.
Love and blessings,
Angie (Pensacola FL)
Sheryl and Duane Pritchett says
Jon, Chris and family. Sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers of peace for all of you.
Sasha (Huff) Hudson says
I am so sorry. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. ❤️
Pam bickerest says
Deepest sympathy and prayers of comfort for all.
Julie Dutchess says
Chris and family, 31 years doesn’t seem long enough. I’m thinking of you and sending my prayers and heartfelt wishes for peace to you….knowing your wonderful son is resting in peace.
Julie Dutchess
John and Holly Kunz says
We are heartbroken for you all at this great passing of Luke! May Jesus grant you peace as healing takes place and memories to flood your lives in the goodness of Luke in the lives of so many!
Russell Smith says
Jon, Chris, and Family,
This breaks my heart. I haven’t seen Luke in a long time, but if you take away that fine looking beard I can see the same 3 year old face I remember. Full of light. Full of fun. Full of energy… lots of energy!
Reading about his work in the community and giving nature was wonderful. Our bodies may not last, but our spirits live on through the people and places we have touched in our lives, and he has obviously touched many. You can’t live life any better than that, and it’s a testament to him as well as all of you. May God bring you peace in this hardest of times.
With love and prayers,
Russell
Don Klein says
Chris, My heart is broken for you and your family today. Although I never had the honor of meeting Luke, it sounds like his character embodies the actions I witness from you every day. I pray for peace for your family during this time.
Megan Middlecoat says
So sorry for you loss. Sending thoughts and prayers to your family.
Tonia Davis says
Jon,
You and your family are in our thought and prayers here at The Villages at Oak Ridge. The Lord Bless You and Keep You.
Rebecca M Lucas says
So sorry for your loss. Luke was a very kind and caring man. Please know your Trilogy family is here to support you both in any way we can.
Brenda Merkel says
Prayers for family and friends. Sorry for your loss
David Howard says
Our prayers and heartfelt condolences to you, Jon and Chris and Eric and all family and friends. May the peace that passes all understanding be with you all during this time and going forward. God bless you. Love, Uncle Dave and Aunt Ivy
Terry and Nancy Merkel Starkey says
Jon, Chris, Eric and family,
Keeping you and your entire family in prayer.
Trudy Sutton says
Chris, Jon, and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. It sounds like Luke was a wonderful son and words cannot express the loss you are feeling. My most sincere condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Nick and Brenda Keller says
Jon and Chris, we were so sorry to hear about Luke’s passing. Love, hugs and prayers to you and your family.