Richard L Howard “Rick”, a proud Navy veteran from Bowling Green, OH, passed away on August 8, 2024, at the age of 76. Born in El Dorado, AR on May 6, 1948, Richard enlisted in the Navy on November 16, 1965, serving with honor until his discharge on December 31, 1985, after 20 years of dedicated service.
During his military career, Rick played a significant role as an electronic warfare technician, serving on various vessels including the USS Annapolis, USS Recovery, Mount Whitney, and The Glover. He also spent time stationed at Little Creek amphibious base, The Pentagon and was as a Navy Recruiter in Bowling Green where he met the love of his life Charlotte (Metzger) Howard. They married on December 5, 1975 and she survives him.
After retiring from the Navy, Rick worked at Frank’s Sales and continued to be an active member of the veteran community, holding positions such as Commander of the Bowling Green VFW and serving as the Surgeon at the VFW Post 5645 in Findlay. He was also involved with organizations such as the Eagles Lodge in Bowling Green and was District 1 Commander of the VFW and Grand Commander of the MOC.
Rick was a loving husband to his wife, Charlotte Howard, a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather to his son Richard Howard II and daughter Doralee Dixon; grandfather to Justice, Destiny, Clark, Jaden, Aliera, Kiera; great-grandfather to 3 and one on the way, and a caring brother to Benny Howard. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly riding his Gold Wing motorcycle and camping.
Military Honor for Rick will be rendered in Arkansas in 2025.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents: A.C. Howard, Lola (Thurlkill) Howard and a brother William Douglas Howard.
Contributions in his honor may be gifted to the VFW National Foundation.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Deck-Hanneman Funeral Home, Bowling Green www.hannemanfuneralhomes.com.
