Gary Leon Howell

Gary Leon Howell, 82 of Arkansas City passed away Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the Presbyterian Manor.

A visitation will be Monday from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m at the funeral home in Arkansas City. Please wear your casual Jayhawk red or blue. A family graveside service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the Browns Grove Cemetery in Burdett, KS.

Gary was born April 12, 1943 to Purl Eugene Howell and Fern Lucille (Strawn) in Larned, KS. He graduated from Burdett High School in 1961. On July 28,1962 he married Thresa Rae Hendershot in Kinsley, KS and the couple made their home in Arkansas City. Gary worked for Rainbo Bread Company and Total Petroleum most of his life, and eventually retired from the City of Arkansas City water department.

The couple attended the First United Methodist Church in Arkansas City and were married nearly 60 years. Gary was a loyal KU Basketball fan, loved country music and was passionate about supporting his grandkids in their endeavors.

Gary is survived by sons, David Howell and Janet of Owasso, OK, Brian Howell and Rick Peterson of Irvine, CA; daughter, Charlene Donley and Mike of Tulsa, OK; sister, Connie Schuld of Belton, MO; grandsons, Jake Howell and Jesse, Dalton Howell, Justin Reinking and Sophie, Cale Reinking; honorary granddaughter, Jacey Arnett.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Thresa and brother, Ronald Howell.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the Presbyterian Manor good Samaritan Fund.