Melvin Howell

Melvin Wadsworth Howell, age 65, of Wiggins, Colorado passed away Thursday, March 6, 2025, at his son's home in Jefferson City, Missouri.
Melvin was born on July 28, 1959, in Fort Morgan, Colorado, the son of Keith Wadsworth Howell and Jackie (Kress) Richardson. He was married on November 4, 1978, in Fort Collins, Colorado to Linda Franzel, who survives.
Raised on a farm surrounded by Appaloosa horses, Melvin developed a deep appreciation for rural life early on. As a young man, he participated in rodeo, excelling in calf roping. He attended Wiggins High School, graduating in 1977, and began working alongside his father on the family farm. He took on a new role at Wiggins Co-Op, spreading fertilizer to support local farmers. Later in 1999, he partnered with his brother-in-law to operate M & M Farms, where they spent nearly 30 years growing wheat, corn, and sugar beets. Farming wasn't just his livelihood-it was his passion, and he could talk about it for hours with anyone who would listen.
Melvin had a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and alongside his wife, Linda, he owned and operated LM Noodle Company, bringing homemade noodles to the community. He was also a man who knew how to enjoy life. In his earlier years, he and Linda played on a volleyball team together. He also took many family trips including an annual fishing trip to Canada with his dad Keith. He loved camping, motorcycle riding, and cheering on his favorite teams-the Denver Nuggets and Denver Broncos.
More than anything, Melvin was a people person. He never met a stranger, and his warm presence made everyone feel like a friend. His quick wit and love of practical jokes brought laughter wherever he went. He found his greatest joy in entertaining and playing with his granddaughters, creating memories filled with love.
Melvin was a man who embraced life with a hardworking spirit, a kind heart, and a love for the simple joys of family, friends, and the great outdoors. His legacy is one of hard work, humor, and a deep love for family and community. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Survivors include: his wife of 46 years, Linda Howell of Wiggins, Colorado; two sons, Joshua Howell (Jackie) of Phoenix, Arizona and Joseph Howell (Michelle Schulz) of Jefferson City, Missouri; a nephew who he viewed as a son, James Franzel of Tampa, Florida; his father, Keith Howell (Lynn) of Wiggins, Colorado; two granddaughters, Stevie Howell and Zoey Howell; three siblings, Carol Fisher, Cheryl Burdette (Mike), and Kate Harris (Travis); step-brothers, Eric, Greg, and Chad Creighton; niece, Michelle Baker (Brian) nephews, Kyle Burdette (Malori) and Tyler Burdette (Shayla) along with several great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Jackie Richardson.
An open memorial service and reception will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 22, 2025 at his family farm, 7450 Rd. 7, Wiggins, Colorado.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.