Born on April 17, 1937, in Eddyville, Iowa, to Tunis and Alice DenHartog, Howard grew up on a farm alongside his dear sister, Alta Mae, who was two years older and passed away in 2018. In 1958, while attending Central College in Pella, Iowa he married Esther Rezelman. Together, they shared nearly sixty years of marriage until Esther’s passing in 2017.

He spent the majority of his career at Wasatch Academy in Mount Pleasant, Utah, where he not only taught but also oversaw the volunteer program and served as Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds. His career also took him to Presbyterian-related schools in Iowa, New Mexico, and Alabama, where he inspired countless students and friends through his teaching and example.

Upon retirement, Howard and Esther settled in Sisters, Oregon, where they built a beautiful log home together. He often said that, of all the places he lived, Sisters was his favorite–a place of peace, nature, and community.

Howard’s later years were spent at Monte Vista Grove Homes in Pasadena, California. He remained active and engaged, taking daily walks, traveling when he could, and joining a writing group whose collective stories were eventually published. Pride in his Dutch heritage shown through with his yearly planting of tulips.

Howard is survived by his four children: Sherri Wilson of Ephraim, Utah and husband Lynn Wilson (deceased); Jacci DenHartog of Los Angeles, California and husband Pat Nickell; Rebecca Nord of Bellevue, Washington and husband Jeff Nord; and Nathaniel DenHartog of Silverton, Oregon. He also leaves behind five grandchildren and five great-granddaughters.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Monte Vista Grove Homes later this winter, with details to be announced.