Howard B. Scheetz Sr.

Howard B. Scheetz, Sr., of Deptford, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, in one of his favorite recliners, a quiet and gentle passing that reflected the calm, steady, and loving presence he brought to everyone in his life. He was the beloved husband of 60 years, Barbara Scheetz (nee Riedl), a partnership marked by loyalty, patience, and enduring love. Howard and Barbara first met through their shared membership in the 4-H Club, a connection that blossomed into a lifelong partnership filled with love, joy, and shared adventures. Though his family was not physically with him at that moment, he was deeply cherished and held close in their hearts every single day.

Howard was the devoted father of Cheryl Scheetz-Utke (John), Barbara Selb (Jeremy), and Howard B. Scheetz, Jr. (Amy), and proud grandfather of Jeremy, Jr. (Macey), Shianne (Steven), Braedon, Julianna, and Mackenzie, and great-grandfather of Waylon. He was the youngest of five siblings and was predeceased by his loving brothers and sister, Edward, Henry, William, and Martha. Many nieces and nephews affectionately called him "Unc," a name that reflected his warmth, kindness, and generosity. He is survived by his brother-in-law Frank Riedl and his wife Cathy, who were close family throughout his life.

Howard was a remarkably hard worker and a very selfless person, always putting others before himself. For many years, he tended to the family farm during the day, where a significant portion of the family's crops were provided to Campbell's, and worked overnight at Acme Supermarket, where he retired after 35 years of dedicated service. He self-taught himself how to do almost everything, from plumbing to woodworking to being a skilled mechanic. You name it, he could do it! And if he couldn't do it, he would figure out how. You could often find Howard mowing the lawn or tending to his beautiful garden, where his true green thumb shone. Throughout their lives, his children always knew they could rely on him to fix their bikes, cars, and later, assist with projects around their own homes or offer advice. More often than not, he would simply say, "I'll be over to look at it!", a perfect reflection of the caring, dependable father he was.

Howard's love and care extended beyond his family. He cherished his precious dogs throughout the years, especially his last dog, Molly, whom he loved like a child. He also savored simple pleasures, especially New England clam chowder, with a fondness for the one from Red Lobster, and the seafood salad from Bobby Chez, another favorite. He was also a proud member of the 4-H Club, where he served as leader of both the 4-H Tractor Club and the Senior 4-H Club, generously sharing his knowledge, patience, and love of farming with younger generations.

For many years, Howard loved spending Thanksgiving in Maine with his older brother, Eddie, hunting and visiting with friends. Most Augusts, he took his family to Maine for a summer vacation at Eddie's house, enjoying fairs, exploring the state, and visiting relatives. Later in life, Howard and Barbara bought a cabin in Pennsylvania, which became one of his most cherished places. There, he continued his passion for hunting every November with his son, other family members, and friends, creating new memories while honoring long-standing traditions. He loved sharing and creating memories at the cabin with family and friends, taking long rides, discovering new towns, enjoying campfires, and even feeding the bears and deer that visited. In winter, he and his wife spent countless hours snowmobiling, and throughout the year they enjoyed four-wheeling, making the most of every season together.

Howard was also a graduate of Deptford Township High School, Class of 1961, where he excelled at football as an offensive tackle. He was inducted into the Deptford High School Football Hall of Fame and remained a lifelong football enthusiast. Sundays were often spent watching football, proudly cheering on his favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys.

Above all, Howard was defined by his heart, a protector, a steady presence, and a source of comfort and joy to those who loved him. His legacy lives on in the countless memories he created the lessons he taught, and the love he shared.

Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing on Friday, January 23, 2026 from 10:30am to 12noon at Memorial Presbyterian Church of Wenonah, 202 E. Mantua Ave., Wenonah, NJ 08090, where a religious service will immediately follow at 12:00 noon.

Interment Private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Howard's memory to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia by accessing https://www.chop.edu/, the American Diabetes Association by accessing https://diabetes.org/, or the National Kidney Foundation by accessing https://www.kidney.org/.

For condolences, please visit www.boucherfuneralhome.com.