John Edward Howard was born on December 7, 1947, to Larry and Renata Howard in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  He joined siblings Joanne, Jim, Jane, Judy, and later Julie.    John passed away on May 15, 2022.

In 1968, John enlisted in the Navy, serving as a Gunner's Mate in Vietnam.  After his discharge, he attended and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a degree in Communications.  After graduation, he enlisted in the Army where he attained the rank of Captain.  John also earned a Master's Degree in Communications.

John was instrumental in developing and implementing the online teaching program at Eastern New Mexico State University.  He later retired from South Dakota State University, where he worked as an Instructional Designer.

While stationed in Germany, John married Roberta Dixon.  They were blessed with two children.

In 2012, John married Sally Schleicher Villegas in Brookings.

Survivors include his wife, Sally; son, Stephen (Amanda); daughter, Melissa; bonus children, Gregory (Sarah) Villegas and Brendan (Kristan) Villegas; nine bonus grandchildren along with baby Howard arriving in October.