Howard Maxwell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Howard Edward Maxwell, a beloved member of the community and a cherished family man, who left us on December 24, 2025, at the Courtyard Estates at Hawthorne Crossing in Bondurant, Iowa. A visitation will be held in his honor on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at Hendersons Funeral & Cremation Care in Des Moines, IA, followed by a funeral service at 11:30 a.m. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

Born on August 31, 1951, in Newton, Iowa, to Howard and Laurel (Beard) Maxwell, Howard's roots were firmly planted in rural Jasper County and shaped by his upbringing in Mingo. Known for his strong work ethic, he spent countless hours helping on his uncle's farms. His journey in the meat industry began early when his mother married Chauncey Akins, the owner of the Mingo Meat Locker, where Howard honed his skills in meat cutting. A proud graduate of Mingo High School's class of 1969, he carried that determination into his career at Hy-Vee in Des Moines, where he dedicated over 42 years working as a meat specialist before his retirement in 2014.

Howard's life was rich with passion and interests that reflected his loving nature. He found joy in spending time with his family, working on the farm, and expressing his creativity through woodworking. His hobbies included collecting toy John Deere diecast toy tractors, FFA tractors and memorabilia, lanterns, clocks, and Hy-Vee trucks, each reflecting the deep appreciation he had for life's simple pleasures.

Howard's legacy will be carried on by those who loved him dearly. He is survived by his son Brock (Elissa) Maxwell of Altoona, Iowa; his sisters, Karalyn Gerhart of Des Moines, Iowa, Charlene Dunbar of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, Alice (Frank) Palacio of Centerville, Iowa, and Jean Reece of Iowa City, Iowa; his special friend Deborah De Jong; and his grand pets, Kinze and Karl. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and close friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, who instilled in him the values of kindness and hard work that he shared with all who knew him.

In honor of Howard's dedication to supporting youth and agriculture, memorial contributions may be directed to the Colfax-Mingo FFA. His spirit will live on in the hearts of many, as we remember a life marked by love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Howard's family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice and the staff of Courtyard Estates at Hawthorne Crossing for taking such great care of him.