Richard Arlen Howell

Westville- Richard Arlen Howell of Westville passed away on April 20, 2016 at Presence Hospital in Danville, IL. He was born on January 22, 1931 in Danville, IL. He was the son of William and Louise Howell. Richard married Evelyn Nolan, they later divorced. Richard married MaryAnn Nelson on May 20, 1973 in Danville, IL. She survives. Richard is also survived by his sons; David Howell (Ocala, Florida), William (Debbie) Howell (Westville), Daughters; Deena Hutson (Covington), Sandy (Dale) Skates (Ocala, Florida), Debi (Larry) Saunders (Danville), Donna (Audey) Lake (Georgetown) and daughter-in-law Judy Howell (Brazil, Indiana). He also has 18 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, son Doug Howell, son-in-law Mark Lewin and great grandson Kaeden Lee. Richard retired from Hurletron Inc. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where he enjoyed singing in the choir, attended grade school and he later graduated from Danville High School. He was a member of The American Legion where he played the trumpet with The Thunderbirds. Richard enjoyed sports, he was a fan of Illinois as well as a Green Bay Packers fan. He was in the U.S. Navy where he was a radio repairman on the U.S.S. F.M. Robinson. Richard loved to go camping and fishing as well as spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was an all-around handyman and jokester. Richard was also a loving husband and best friend to his wife, MaryAnn. A celebration of Richard's life will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church at 10:30 AM on Tuesday April 26, 2016. Burial will follow at the Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday April 25, 2016 from 4-7 PM at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, IL. Please join Richard's family in sharing memories, picture and video on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com