William Richard "Bill" Howery

Age 83, of Deerwood, beloved father and grandfather, passed away on Aug. 26 after a several month battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Preceded in death by his sister Judith. Survived by his children Billy (Amber) and Heather (Jim); grandchildren Madison (Jordan), Joseph, Erin, Tori, and Megan; great-grandchild Brenna; brother Robert and sisters Sandra and Nancy. He is also survived by the mother of his children Bonnie (Madory).

Bill was born in Des Moines, IA on July 29, 1942 to Billy and Gerry Howery. He graduated from Oelwein High School and then served in the U.S. Army from 1964 - 1966.

In 1964, he came home on leave from basic training and married Bonnie (Madory). Following his time in the army, he returned to the Minneapolis area where he and Bonnie raised their children together. A man of hard work and immense generosity, Bill spent his career working on railroads. In 1984, he started his own railroad company, Mar-John Track Maintenance. The company ran for 28 years and it was one of his greatest accomplishments. Following his retirement in 2013, he moved to his favorite place in the world, a cabin built by his parents in Deerwood, MN.

There, Bill enjoyed the peacefulness and beauty of nature, the companionship of various dogs, and visits from his children, grandchildren and extended family. Bill loved his family deeply. He had a great love for music, the radio was always on and if you were lucky you could catch him singing along.

Bill was a friend to all, he knew the importance of calling people by name and even in his final days was reminding his caretakers how wonderful they were. He leaves a legacy of generosity, love of nature, kindness and love.

Memorial Service Thursday, September 4th at 11 A.M. Luncheon to be served following the service. Location: Emmanuel Christian Center - Spring Lake Park 7777 University Ave NE, Spring Lake Park, MN 55432

Please enter Door 4.

Please send flowers to: 7777 University Ave NE, Spring Lake Park, MN 55432. Deliver to Door 1.

memorial service

Memorial Service

September 4, 2025

Emmanuel Christian Center - Spring Lake Park 7777 University Ave NE, Spring Lake Park, MN 55432, USA

Please enter Door 4.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services