James “Jim” Harrison Howard, age 83, passed away on Wednesday August 21st after a life well lived. Jim was born in 1941 in West Concord, MN, later moving to Waseca, MN where he made a name for himself as a standout academic and athlete. In high school Jim played (and Captained) football, basketball and baseball. He proudly received the Academic/Athletic award for the graduating class of 1958 and years later was inducted into Waseca’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He went on to play baseball at Mankato State, where he graduated from in 1963.
His proudest moment, though, had nothing to do with athletics. It was the day he won over Sally Ann Keane. She was more than the love of his life; she was his “Tiger” from 1960 on. The two married in September of 1961, welcoming the twins Sandy and Susan the following summer. A few years later they completed their family by welcoming Stacy and then Sara.
Jim was lucky to earn a living by doing what he loved. He worked as an elementary Phy Ed teacher in Rochester, MN from 1963-1970. He then went on to sell insurance specializing in Commercial Trucking Insurance, first at People’s State Bank in Plainview and then C.O. Brown Insurance Agency in Rochester.
Life was busy, but Jim wouldn’t have had it any other way. In addition to his family, he had more friends than many would have in two lifetimes. It’s hard to go somewhere in Southeast MN and not find someone that did not know Jim Howard, whether it was from years of softball, basketball, volleyball, golf, bowling, racquetball or the Plainview Lion’s Club. Jim made friends anywhere and everywhere he went. No one had a heart of gold like this guy did. He’d give the shirt off his back and the money in his wallet to anyone, if Tiger would let him.
True joy came though when Jim welcomed his 6 grandchildren. Driving to Cannon Falls and Red Wing over the years, he kept busy watching many hours of sports, becoming the consummate fan. Although his grandchildren all fight to be his favorite, it’s equally agreed upon he was theirs.
Jim is survived by Sally (aka Tiger), his wife of 63 years, along with his four daughters, Sandy (Tom) Klassen, Susan (Mike) Rolfes, Stacy (Rich) Harris and Sara (Dale Plonsky) Howard. Six grandchildren, Steph (Chris) Cornwall, Jack (Claire) Rolfes, James Rolfes, Paul Rolfes, Molly Rolfes, Austin Jacobs, and one great grandson, John.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Dorothy Howard; three brothers: Chuck, Butch, and Bruce; his in-laws Tommy and Sally Keane, and many, many other loving friends and family.
There will be a private family gathering. Memorials suggested to Mayo Hospice whose care was so appreciated.
Memories and condolences of Jim may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
Worked with Jim on a few joint insurance risks over the years. Always enjoyed our conversations, and his satirical comments. He will be missed.
Condolences to Sally and family. In my 10 years of knowing Jim (Jimmy the Fish I called him), I have so many fond memories of him. Through the tears and laughter of the stories our old trucking group have been sharing, we all agree that Jim was truly one of a kind and legend. Jim added fun to everything!
Love,
Tara or Turbo (he gave me that nickname) & Chuck Miller
Sally and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a good neighbor and friend. May God be with you all. Hold onto the memories and keep them close to your heart.
Bob and Sue Tangen
Everything said about Jim in his obituary was true in spades. Given his humor and love of others, he was a joy to be with. He was truly one of God’s great souls and messengers.
Jim will be missed by many. He was always kind and cheerful. Jim could be found by following the laughter.