Michael “Mike” “Howie” James Howard
Michael “Mike” “Howie” James Howard, 49, Cornell, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday, May 11, 2025, at his home.
Mike was born Feb. 11, 1976, to Todd and Sue Howard.
He attended school in Cornell, graduating in 1994.
Mike was involved in many activities, including track, basketball and football. Notably, Mike was known for his game-winning catch in the endzone, as time expired, to defeat Cadott, in Cloverbelt action in 1993.
He attended UW-Eau Claire and CVTC in Eau Claire, and the University of Minnesota, studying nano science technology.
Mike was self-employed, while residing in Florida, from 2019-24, when he returned to Cornell.
He married Mindy Jackson, in Chippewa Falls, in 2021. They later separated, in 2024.
Mike loved his nieces and nephews, “a bushel and a peck,” and they cherished their time with Uncle Mike. He also loved his dogs more than most humans.
He couldn’t wait to move back to the hot climate, where he was in his element. Mike enjoyed the outdoors and spent time kayaking, hiking and riding bike for miles on end. He also enjoyed gardening and yard work, making his Florida home his own. In his spare time, he created a beautiful prayer garden for a local church.
Mike also enjoyed visiting many different amusement parks throughout the United States, concerts and traveling.
He leaves behind many family members and friends, who will miss him dearly.
Mike was always putting others first and would lend a hand where needed. He loved his family very much and they loved him unconditionally.
He is survived by his parents – Todd and Sue, Cornell; his brother – Jeff (Andrea), and nieces – Mara and Macy, Albertville, Minn.; his sister – Cari (Jason Mansur) and nieces and nephews – Augie, Etta, Atleigh and Everett, Queen Creek, Ariz.; “niece” – Patricia Lowry; his grandmother – Lois Howard, Cornell; many aunts; uncles and cousins; his special friend and our angel – Amber; and his beloved furry friends – Ariel and Poo.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents – Chuck and Marge Gass; and his paternal grandfather – Bill Howard, all of Cornell.
In lieu of flowers and memorials, the family invites you to honor his memory, by holding your loved ones close, and sharing a laugh or two, just as he would have wanted.
A celebration of life will be held from 2-4 p.m., Friday, May 30, at Mill Yard Park in Cornell.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.bortonleiserfuneralhome.com. Borton-Leiser Funeral Home in Cornell, is assisting the family.
