Kenneth E. Howard Jr.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Kenneth Eugene Howard, known to all who loved him as "Buster". Born and raised in Chicago, Buster lived a life full of love, laughter, and an unshakeable loyalty to his family. He touched countless lives with his kindness, his generosity, and his larger-than-life personality.
A devoted father to Michael Cunningham, Kenneth Cunningham (deceased), Tommy Howard, and Juanita Cunningham, Buster was a proud grandfather to Amanda, Eva, Sarah Rose, Joshua, Aliana, and Nolan, and a loving great-grandfather to Kenny Michael, Mackenzie, and little Ascher. His family meant the world to him, and he was their protector and their patriarch. He will forever be remembered by his many nieces and nephews-Cynthia, Yvonne, Nanette, Yvette, Robbie, Wesley, Derek, and Lauren-who cherished him as "Uncle Buster."
Buster was predeceased by his beloved wife, Carol, the love of his life, with whom he shared countless years of joy, laughter, and partnership. We take comfort in knowing that Buster is now reunited with Carol in heaven, where they will continue their journey together, watching over us all.
Buster is survived by his loving siblings, Barbara Campbell (John Campbell- deceased), Keith Howard (Kristina Howard), and Nancy Romanowski (Robert Romanowski), who will forever carry his memory. He was predeceased by his parents, Margaret and Ken Howard, who no doubt welcomed him with open arms.
Though Buster's family was large, his heart was even bigger, and he opened it to many others over the years, becoming a "pops" to countless adopted children and friends alike, including Tomi and Sherri. It didn't matter if you were his blood or not-if you needed him, he was there. A true angel on earth, Buster's life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and selfless service to others without hesitation.
Buster was a man who didn't just have friends-he made friends everywhere he went. Whether on the streets of Chicago or in his family home in Elgin, his loud, unmistakable voice, thick with a Chicago accent, was a signature that made him known to so many. And while his voice could fill a room, it was his heart that filled the lives of everyone who knew him.
His legacy is not just in the family he raised but in the community of people who are better for having known him. He made his mark on this world with his generosity, his humor, and his contagious spirit. In every conversation, there was laughter. In every helping hand, there was a promise kept. And in every word of wisdom, there was a lesson shared.
His passing leaves a void that can never be filled. But the memories of his voice, his laughter, and the love he shared will live on in all of us. Rest in peace, Buster-you were one of a kind, and you will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing you.
Visitation and Celebration of Life, Saturday, October 25, 2025, 3:00PM to 7:00PM at Sheldon-Goglin-Kaminski Funeral Home, 5935 W. Belmont Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.
Cremation rites have been accorded.