Bobby G. "Bob" Howell

1937 - 2021

Bobby "Bob" G. Howell, age 84, of Gas City, passed away on the morning of Sunday, July 4, 2021, in his home surrounded by his loving family. As the proud Army veteran he was, he chose the most fitting holiday to be his last. Bobby was the son of the late Joseph and Virgie (Erwin) Howell, born on February 13, 1937, in Carter County, Kentucky. He grew up in Olive Hill, Kentucky, and was the last surviving of his seven siblings.

Bobby will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Joyce L. (Ratliff) Howell, and his children, Jerry (Amy) Testerman of Dallas, Texas, Elaine (Rex) Hehe of Gas City, and G. Dewayne (Christine) Howell of New Haven.

Bobby will be missed by his grandchildren and their spouses, whom he never failed to tell "I love you more" before they walked out the door: Doug (Paulina) Testerman, Davin (Brandon) Howell Spidel, Gabe Hehe, Erik Testerman, Michael (Tiffany) Hehe, Derek (Karlyn) Howell, Cara (Josh) Friend, Mark Testerman, Rachael Hehe, Kyle Howell, and Jennifer Hehe. He is described by his grandchildren as doting, selfless, benevolent, encouraging, and immensely proud of each and every one of them.

Bobby's legacy will also live on in his ten great-grandchildren, Mason and Gabi Hehe, Kannon and Sloane Testerman, Briley and Dominik Howell, Madison and Avery Friend, Isaac Hehe, and Odin Pedersen, as well as many nieces, nephews, family, and friends, all of whom share great memories of him.

After serving in the U.S. Army from January 1958 to January 1961 and from October 1961 to August 1962, he settled in Indiana, where he met the love of his life, Joyce. Bob went on to own and operate B&H Marathon and B&H Auto Service with his brother-in-law, Hershel Ratliff, for 35 years in Marion. After semi-retiring, he continued with B&H Towing for another six years. When he wasn't attending his grandchildren's activities and sporting events, Bobby could be found volunteering as a DAV driver and for the Grant County Honor Guard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Virgie Howell; brothers, Clifford, Fred, and Billy Jo Howell; sisters, Violet Hutcheson, Millie Fultz, Madge Fernandes, and Audrey Eldridge; as well as his grandson, CJ Howell.

The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, July 10, 2021, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN.

Immediately following the time of visitation, a funeral service to celebrate Bobby's life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Mick Simpkins officiating. Burial will take place at Grant Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be directed to D.A.V. Bldg. 14, Rm. 135, 1700 E. 38th St., Marion, IN 46953.

Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.