Joan A. Howell

CONTINENTAL – Joan A. Howell, 85, of Continental, passed away at 12:32 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Meadows of Ottawa. She was born September 23, 1940, in Dupont to the late Marvin and Elvera (Brinkman) Dangler. On July 26, 1958, she married Rolland “Tootie” Howell of Continental, he preceded her in death on March 1, 2005.

Joan is survived by two sons: Rowdy (Joyce) Howell and Rob (Traci) Howell; her grandchildren: Jennifer (Brad) Backhaus, Jay (Lisa) Howell, Amber (Jesse) Huff, Shane (Courtney) Howell, Derek Troyer (Miranda Coombs), and Kayla (Scott) Tyree; eight great-grandchildren; a sister: Rhonda (Doug) Smalley; a brother-in law: Marvin Frankart; and a sister-in-law: Regina Howell.

She is preceded in death by siblings, Janice (Larry) Bibler, Gerald (Linda) Dangler, Marjorie Frankart; sister-in law, Kathryn (Dorence) Vorwerk, and brother-in-law, Fred Howell.

Joan was a 1958 graduate of Continental High School and lived her married life in Continental, where she and her husband were farmers. Joan was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many. She was a hard-working wife, avid reader, bird watcher, seamstress and cook. She loved being in her kitchen, often surrounded by the smell of fresh baked zucchini bread, pies, cakes and various other treats. Sewing and baking were expressions of her many talents she shared with family and friends. She also loved tending to her beautiful flower gardens which reflected her patient, nurturing spirit. Above all, Joan cherished her family. She will be remembered for her strong work ethic, the family she raised, the traditions she passed down and the hearts she warmed. Joan was a member of Faith Assembly of Believers, Ottawa, and proudly shared her love of Jesus Christ with others. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Putnam County Hospice and the Meadows of Ottawa staff for their loving care provided to Joan.

A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Continental with Pastor John Buckland officiating. Burial will follow in Monroe Cemetery, Continental. A visitation will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Putnam County Hospice or the Continental Library.

Condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyer.com