In Loving Memory of Daniel “Dan” Howard

 December 20, 1964 – October 18, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Daniel David Noel Howard, age 61, who passed away on the morning of October 18, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him. Born on December 20, 1964, in Lompoc, California, Dan lived a life marked by kindness, laughter, adventure, and a deep love for the people around him.

To know Dan was to know a man with a big heart, a great sense of humor, and a willingness to help anyone who needed it. He had a way of making people feel comfortable, turning strangers into friends, and making gatherings more memorable simply by being himself. Whether he was lending a helping hand, sharing a laugh, or calling just to check in, Dan had a way of reminding people that they mattered.

A true jack of all trades, Dan was a man of many talents who could figure just about anything out. His skills and adventurous spirit took him traveling across America, where he embraced new places, experiences, and opportunities along the way. He was the kind of man who could turn his hand to just about anything, and if something needed fixing, someone needed help, or a problem needed solving, he was always willing to do what he could. He gave freely of his time, his talents, and his heart, never needing recognition or anything in return.

One of Dan’s greatest passions was cooking. A champion of BBQ, he took pride in preparing delicious food and sharing it with the people around him. From smoking meat to cooking all kinds of meals, Dan understood that food was about so much more than what was on the plate. It was his way of showing love, bringing people together, and making sure everyone was taken care of. If Dan cooked for you, you knew you were loved. The meals he prepared, the laughter shared around the table, and the memories made with family and friends will be cherished for years to come.

Dan attended Huntsville High School, Calhoun College, and Auburn University, building knowledge and skills that reflected his resourceful, hands-on nature and his ability to take on just about any challenge.

Above all, Dan was a devoted husband, a loving adoptive dad, a proud grandfather, a wonderful dog dad, and a great brother. He shared 35 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Pamela Howard, building a life together filled with love, companionship, and countless memories. He was a loving father to his adoptive daughter, and cherished grandfather. Dan showed that family is not defined by blood alone, but by the love you give, the people you show up for, and the place you hold in someone’s heart.

Dan was a caring and loving brother whose humor, willingness to help, and dependable nature made him someone his siblings could turn to. He shared a family bond that extended beyond words, leaving behind memories of a brother who could make them laugh, lend a hand, and remind them that family was always worth showing up for.

Dan was funny, generous, dependable, and full of life. He loved to cut up, tease the people he loved, tell stories, and keep everyone laughing. You never quite knew what he might say next, but you could count on him to bring humor into an ordinary moment. His laughter, quick wit, and unmistakable personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela Howard; his adoptive daughter, Mindi Latchaw(Jonathan); his grandchildren, John, Mark, and Joseph; and his loving siblings, his brother W. Stephen Howard (Julie) and children, Kristen, Walter, Spencer, and Samuel, his sister Cindy Howard Case (Bob) and sons, Brian and Cooper, his sister Amy E. Howard, his sister Anne Howard Stagg (Scott) and son Gabe, and his brother Tim Howard. He also leaves behind extended family members, dear friends, and countless others whose lives were made better by knowing him. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Jean R. Howard.

Though Dan’s passing leaves an immeasurable space in the hearts of those who loved him, he will be remembered as a man who gave generously, loved wholeheartedly, and made life a little brighter for everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. May we honor his memory by loving others generously, helping whenever we can, laughing often, exploring the world with an open heart, and always making room for one more person at the table.

Dan may have finished early, but the love he left behind will remain. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. ♥️