Duane A. Howell, 91, of Green Bay, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on December 24, 2025.

Duane was born on October 29, 1934, in Winterset, Iowa, to the late Aaron and Lola Howell. He graduated from Winterset High School and then began his college education at Iowa State where he met Dorothy Dassie. Before graduating from Iowa State University, Duane joined the Army where he participated in the First Division Army Band. Upon discharge from the Army, Duane finished his education and graduated from Iowa State University as an Agricultural Engineer.

During his time at Iowa State, Duane married the love of his life, Dorothy Dassie, on October 16, 1954, and together they shared 71 wonderful years of marriage, building a family and life rooted in love, faith, and dedication.

Duane was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren brought him his greatest joy, and he was truly the best "Dad" anyone could have ever wished for. Even in his final days Duane played his favorite "peek a boo" with his great grandchildren.

Duane graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Agricultural Engineering. His professional career began at John Deere Tractor Works in Waterloo, Iowa and culminated at Kimberly-Clark, where he advanced as an engineer and earned several patents along the way. Though deeply proud of his professional accomplishments, Duane always believed that family came first-a value he lived by and instilled in all who knew him.

After retirement, Duane discovered a passion for art in many forms including painting and wood carving. He took painting classes and became an accomplished and gifted artist, surprising many with his talent and creativity. Duane also used his many engineering and building skills in retirement which included building a "Little Free Library" for the Suamico Village Hall.

He generously donated his time and talents to the Ecumenical Partnership for Housing (EPH). In recognition of his dedication and service, the organization's service Award proudly bears his name: The Duane Howell Service Award.

Duane was deeply committed to mentorship and leadership, serving for many years as a Boy Scout leader and participating in Toastmasters, and to SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) where he continued to grow, learn, and help others do the same.

Duane was a long-time volunteer with Dorothy at the Weidner Center and Meyer Theater. They enjoyed their volunteer time together. Duane enjoyed traveling and especially loved his travels with Dorothy throughout the world.

Throughout Duane's life he was an active member of the church volunteering as a Sunday School teacher and was an active board member. Duane actively supported the Suamico United Methodist Church in many ways.

Duane's legacy is one of love, integrity, service, and unwavering devotion to family. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A previous quote by EPH summarizes the kind heart of Duane Howell:

"His assistance goes beyond expectations. He stays in touch with the families who have successfully exited the program and is more than willing to teach new skills when they find themselves leasing or renting a place of their own. They know that Duane's helping hand and kind nature is but a phone call away. Thank you Duane! We love that you let your light shine into the lives of so many people in our community."

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy Howell; his children, Dan (Karen) Howell, Donna (Robb) Thiel, and Darla (Bill) Farrell; grandchildren, Sarah Howell, Matt Howell, Aileen (Alex) Moreaux, Amber (Jeremy) Grekin, Erin (Joe) Krebsbach, and Zach (Shannon) Maassen; and great-grandchildren, Violet, Rory, and Sully Moreaux, Sasha and Nina Grekin, Jack and Everly Krebsbach, and Charlotte Maassen; sister, Karen VanEssen; sisters-in-law, Nancy Howell and Deborah Howell; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Aaron and Lola Howell, and his brothers, Walt Howell and Gary Howell; sister-in-law, Lilah Howell; brother-in-law, Norman VanEssen.

Friends and family will gather at Suamico United Methodist Church, 3266 Lakeview Dr, Suamico, from 10am to 11:30am on Saturday, January 31; Service to follow at 11:30am. Inurnment will be at Fort Howard Memorial Park. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Ecumenical Partnership for Housing in Green Bay. Donations can be made directly online at https://www.ephgb.org/donate

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Unity Hospice and Brookview Meadows for the care, compassion, and kindness shown to Duane and his family during his final weeks.