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Howard C. Humphrey

Howard Humphrey Obituary

SPRINGFIELD - Howard C. Humphrey, 75, passed away on July 20, 2009, in Florida.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, July 24, 2009, at Staab Funeral Home. The funeral will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 25, 2009, at First Congregational Church with Reverend Brian E. Damrow presiding. Burial will be at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to UIS Scholarship Fund in memory of Howard Humphrey, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign I Fund, or Memorial Medical Center Foundation.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The State Journal-Register from Jul. 23 to Jul. 24, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Howard Humphrey

73 Entries

August 16, 2009

Gaga,
I know you already read all of these entries already but I wanted to submit one. Everyone who worked, knew, or grew up with him knew him as Howard. But Brendan and I knew him as Gops. He was our shoulder to cry on, our arms when we needed a hug, our joke book when we needed a laugh, and our book when we wanted a story. I loved him with all my heart and I will never stop loving him, telling his stories and jokes, and recomending his books to all of my friends. I love the both of you so much.

With All Of My Love,
Ally

Mark Kinzer

August 13, 2009

While I only worked with Howard his last four years or so at Franklin, I was always impressed by the genuine affection that Franklin employees had for him, and vice versa.

He will be missed.

James parker

August 9, 2009

August 7, 2009

Dear Lynda,
Please accept our sincere condolences.
Howard had an exuberant personality and a genuinely happy outlook on life.

He was an encouragement to us as we began our career in the life insurance business.

Who could forget the "spoon" routine at our conventions. As we all know, there are no longer companies quite like the Franklin.
We always felt appreciated and cared about.

May God bless you with His love and healing. We will remember Howard, always.

Jim and Sylvia Parker

August 6, 2009

Dear Linda, You will always be in my heart as one of our special neighbor child raising friends. I think of Howdy playing the spoons at our Christmas Caroling parties. He will be missed by every one who shared the joy of knowing him. Al died a year ago on July 25th. My love to you and your family. Sharon Morris

July 28, 2009

Dear Mrs Humphrey & Family,
I have been so honored to call Howard one of my Franklin Life friends. He was always so inspiring to me and so many others. I will always cherish my fond memories Howard.
May God bless you and comfort you in your time of sorrow.
Norman Harwood

Catherine Jaffke

July 28, 2009

Dear Ms. Linda and Family,
Howard was such a positive, friendly and compassionate individual. He influenced me at every Franklin Life function I attended. I will never forget him. The world is a sadder place without him.
God Bless You All,
Catherine Jaffke

July 28, 2009

Dear Lynda:
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. Howard was a "Great Man" who inspired many. We often think about the wonderful time that we had with the Franklin and all of the super people we met over the years. We will always remeber the fond memories that you and Howard gave us.
Sincerely,

Paul & Bonnie Maskery, Bristol, CT

Mike Hatfield

July 28, 2009

Lynda and family: Howdy was a great one, and he will be missed. I was fortunate to be introduced to him in the early 80's by Dike Eddleman and Jack Watson...and he was a friend ever since. Tailgating at Illinois will no longer be the same. Sincerely,

Rose Carpenter

July 27, 2009

To Lynda & Family
My sincere condolences on the loss of a wonderful husband,father,and friend who was loved and respected by so many. It was an honor to know him and my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sincerely, Rose Carpenter

Vivion Maisenbacher

July 27, 2009

Cathy and Family:

My heart goes out Cathy! You are your Father's daughter - we two know how special that is. It's hard to be there for your family and many, many friends when the loss sits on your chest and steals your breath away. You are a rock Cath: a chip off the old block.
I know you, Lynda, Bryan and the kids will hang tough..

I, as well as my father Jerry Maisenbacher, deeply respected Howard as so many do and will continue through memories of his fantastic life.

Howard reminded me of my Dad: very comfortable in his own skin; a boisterous and contagious sense of humor; a fearless, confident and smart leader that didn't need permission... with heart as big as a house.

Howard was my father's contemporary in the early days. Both popular athletes, they also attended U of I where they developed a bond and comraderie that remained throughout their lives.

Cathy, I think my Dad said more nice things about your Dad than just about anyone I can remember him talking about! As I miss my father, I will miss yours too..they broke the mold on these beautiful men....as their passing broke countless hearts. But hearts mend with use and time and the strong love they left behind.

It's good to know that they will both once again get to raise their beers and toast and cheer!

Osky Wow! Wow!

Love to you and your family.

Vivion Maisenbacher

Sue Poehlman

July 26, 2009

Mrs. Humphrey:

I would like to offer my condolences to you and your family for the loss of Howard.
He was a great leader of "The Friendly Franklin". He always went out of his way to be kind and friendly.

After I retired from Franklin, I worked at UIS and often saw him walking into the PAC building. He was a great supporter of UIS.

He will be missed.

Sue Carol Poehlman

Robin Schmidt

July 26, 2009

Howard, I don't have the words, I think it has been more than 16 years the first day I was invited to come join your tailgate and use your tickets. You made your family my family. You ate my bad sausage bread and put up with whoever I brought...you were a CLASS ACT and your family served you well today. You would have been so proud of Bryan, and your grandchildren, and your friend, Mr. Ridley. I know and I believe that you are somewhere better that we all aspire to. Your legacy lives on and we will continue to support them in dealing with this enormous loss

Richard Bond

July 25, 2009

Lynda,

We were very saddened when we heard of Howard's passing. We have such fond memories of Howard from conventions and meetings and will forever miss the great "story teller". He will live in our hearts forever. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

Richard and Hope Bond

Kyle Thompson

July 25, 2009

Dear Linda and family,

I extend to you my condolences. This is Kyle Thompson (Doc T's son from Springfield at the old Franklin). I have very fond memories of Howard and you and time my twin sister Gena and I spent at your house and pond. I wish you and yours comfort and health.

My prayers are with you. Kyle and family

Bob and Penny Clifford

July 25, 2009

Dear Linda,

We were so saddened by the news of Howard's passing. We will miss his great sense of humor, his caring ways and his cheerful smile. There are so many great memories we will carry with us forever. As Howard would say, "We miss you neighbor".

You are in our prayers.

July 25, 2009

Dear Linda and Family,

We are so sorry to hear about Howdy's sudden death. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Loss is familiar to both our families and with God's help we deal with it as best we can, knowing that this is not the end. We will see our love ones again in His timing.

Irv and Joan
Naples, FL

Marlyn and Judy Scott

July 25, 2009

Lynda, Sorry to hear of Howards death. I appreciate all he did for me and Franklin Life.You will be in our prayers.

Karen Shoup

July 25, 2009

Mrs. Humphrey,
My since condolences to you and your family. Howard hired me in 1961 to work for him at Franklin Life. It was my first job and I will always remember his kindness and great humor. I was so sorry to hear of your loss. May God grant you strength through this difficult time.
Karen Johnson Shoup

July 25, 2009

Dear Friends, Linda and family
I am so sorry I can not be with you to share so many memories and love. We will miss our dear one, Howard. Wally is there with you and that makes me feel better. Know that we love you and you are in my heart.
Love, Ruth

Tom Hays

July 25, 2009

Dear Linda, My condolences on the passing of Howard. It was my privilege to serve with him on the Boards of Franklin and American Brands. He was an outstanding businessman with great leadership skills and unfailing dedication to his policy-holders and employees. His humor and zest for life made him a wonderful friend. Most sincerely, Tom Hays

John & Jean Parret

July 24, 2009

Thank you to Mr. Humphrey

Cindy Frisina Gray

July 24, 2009

Lynda, Cathy & Bryan,

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'll never forget all the wonderful "Howdy" stories my parents told me, watching him play the spoons, the Illini games and most importantly, his devotion to his family. It was a privilege to know him. So glad we got to share a burger together at Skinny's. Our prayers are with you.

Larry and Judy Knisley

July 24, 2009

Lynda and family,we join you in your loss and we will hold you up in our prayers. Howard was very special to so many, as these messages tell. A brilliant mind , master story teller, warm and personable to all. Howard was there for me several times in my career. I will always remember his honesty and his sense of fairness , but most of all his friendship.

Mary Claire Brost

July 24, 2009

Linda- I was so sorry to hear about "Howdy's passing. He truly was the funniest human being I have ever known! I know he probably has everyone in stitches in Heaven right now-maybe the one about the little boy and the goats. Even tho we haven't been in touch lately, I still think of the fun we used to have. You are both in my prayers.

SANDY O'BRIEN

July 24, 2009

DEAR LINDA AND FAMILY....WHAT A LOSS I FEEL IN MY HEART WHEN I LEARNED OF HOWARD'S PASSING...I ALWAYS CONSIDERED BOTH OF YOU AS MY SPRINGFIELD PARENTS AND MORE IMPORTANTLY MY CHILDREN'S SPRINGFIELD GRANDPARENTS..THANK YOU BOTH FOR ALL YOU DID FOR US IN OUR FRANKLIN DAYS AND BEYOND..THERE IS A LARGE HOLE IN THE WORLD NOW WITH HOWARD GONE...LOVE TO ALL OF YOU...SANDY O'BRIEN

GENE & JOAN PANKEY

July 24, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

July 24, 2009

Dear Lynda, What a man!! There was never a time that Howard wouldn't listen to me. He was always there when you needed him. Us OLD timers really missed Howard and now that he has gone to a better place.....we'll meet again and have a laugh and beer together. My deepest sympathy to you and your family Lynda..... Most sinserely, George Wilson

Paul & Mary Horton

July 24, 2009

Dear Lynda, We are saddened to learn about Howard. We both aprreciated Howard and will cherish the many memories of the trips with The Franklin. This past week I came across a set of the spoons he played for us and it brought a smile to my face.
You have our sympathy and love.

TONY PEROT

July 24, 2009

Ms. Linda, so sorry to hear about "Howdy" all the cajuns loved you both and we will remeber him and you forever. he was the only man i ever saw do a headstand on a golf green.

Bev & Walt Wamsley

July 24, 2009

Dear Linda,
We are all better people for having known Howard.
What more can be said?
Our warmest love to you all.
Cheers Howard...
Bev and Walt

Gary and Marcia Mickle

July 24, 2009

Lynda and Family,

Our loss is Heaven's gain. Bet Howard is playing "spoons" right now with the Angels. Howdy was a rare, consistent and "genuine" leader. What you saw was what you got, whether working for the Franklin, hunting at silverspot, or when we accidentally bumped into you both at The Jolly Roger. His integrity and leadership have already been missed in the business world, and he will be fondly remembered by those of us who had the pleasure of knowing him. Know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.

July 24, 2009

Linda, I am Libby Kramer Brown. The Kramers and the Humphreys lived just a few houses away on Main Street in Taylorville. I have known Howdy since childhood and it was a very sad shock to learn of his passing. You have my sympathy.

Kolin O'Brien

July 24, 2009

My condolences to a great family that have suffered a great loss. Howard Humphrey was a kind and loving man and was one of the best story tellers the world has ever known. He will be missed.

Tom Vosnos

July 24, 2009

Linda- Both Brenda and I wish to express our condolences at the passing of Howard...a truly remarkable figure and wonderful role model to us fortunate enough to have known and worked with him. Thanks to you for sharing him with us these many years- the generosity of you both created many fine memories that we'll carry forever.May God strenghten you and the family in this time of sorrow.

james londrigan

July 24, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Renee Derrick Lopata

July 24, 2009

Linda, Cathy & Bryan,

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Howard was truly a great man and will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Raul/Lilliam Vazquez

July 24, 2009

Dear Linda,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We remember Howard with personal affection.

Raul and Lilliam Vazquez
Falls Church, VA

July 24, 2009

Linda,

So sorry to hear of Howard's passing. What a great person he was, and a loyal Illini. I will always remember his talent as an MC at the Illini athletic caravan events---very funny man. We will all miss him.

Ken Zimmerman
Vail, CO

July 24, 2009

Lynda ..... Charlotte called me at work this week crying and sobbing. I asked her what was wrong and she said Howard had died in his sleep and she felt that she just lost a member of her family. I know there are countless "Franklinites " who feel the same way. We both loved Howard Humphrey and will cherish the many fond memories we have of him.
You have our sympathy and love.

Darrell and Charlotte Malano

Con & Lenore Rourke

July 24, 2009

From the Wilshire Road Burgoo to walks in the surf at Longboat Key - we all had a great ride with Howdy.
Good friend, Great neighbor - Vaya con Dios.

Alice Post

July 24, 2009

Dear Lynda and family,
You have my heartfelt sympathy for your great loss of your dear husband. May the Lord hold you in his hands during your time of grief. You can certainly celebrate his life, because he made a difference in the world by using his unusual and extraordinary gifts for the benefit of mankind.

Sincerely, Alice

Jeanie White

July 24, 2009

Mr. Humphrey was on the Board of Directors when I started a Security Bank, almost 30 years ago. He was a nice, warm, friendly man when he came in the Bank, always had a smile, and always spoke to everyoe. I wanted to express my sincere sympathy to you, his family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Tom Lamont

July 24, 2009

Howard was a true gem of a person--always warm, friendly and over the top. And what a great friend of the University of Illinois, he was truly one of a kind. My condolences to all.

Tom Lamont

Connie Bussard

July 23, 2009

I extend my sympathy and prayers to you,Lynda. I remember times at McKees with you and Howdie. You have good memories to sustain you. But my prayers for you and the family during this time

Jana Ladson

July 23, 2009

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
I was fortunate to work with Howard at the "Friendly Franklin" for many years. He will be truly missed by many.

Juanita (Nita) Delforge Ware

July 23, 2009

Dear Linda & Family,
I knew "Howdy" since we were in 3rd grade. He was special then and all through the years. Our 1951 graduating class at Taylorville High School always looked forward to his address at our reunions. He was loved and he will be missed.
Blessings to you and your family.

James Cribbett

July 23, 2009

Mrs. Humphrey,
Words can not express my sadness at hearing of Howards passing. He was one of a kind. I have so many great memories of Howard, and his many stories. I had the pleasure of being the first to receive FRANKLIN'S VIP award and having it presented to me by Howard.
I was also luck enough to have enjoyed being at an ILLINI tail gate party with him many years ago. He always had a story, when ever he spoke, and always had big smile.
I have so many great memories of Howard at the franklin, I have to smile, even now, when I think about them.
You, and your family, will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Sandy McKinnon

July 23, 2009

You have my most sincere condolences. I was fortunate to be one of Howdie's trainers when he started with Franklin Life during his time in New Business. He was so much fun that even Franklin Life was enjoyable. I have kept track of his career through the years and feel lucky to be counted among his business friends.

Kathryn (Katy) Padget

July 23, 2009

I was so sorry to hear about Howard's passing. Cathy, you were an anchor for this family after Papa passed away just two weeks before, and I know you are one of the strongest women I will ever know to be a rock solid person for your family to all lean on right now.

I can never thank you enough for the ways you helped me deal with Papa, and now I'm here if you, Brendan, Ally, your mom or Bryan need to ask anything of me. I am so terribly sorry that you have to grieve so soon again and know that I love you so very much, Aunt Cathy, and I love your whole family, as well as loving your parents as they have been in my life from a very early age - and Howard will be extremely missed by everyone who ever graced with his presence.

Gitana Fletcher

July 23, 2009

I remember my days at The Franklin with a smile because of Howard Humprey. He was a wonderful, caring person. My deepest sympathy.

July 23, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Hoddy was NOT a boss but a very friendly helper. Also, one of the greatest Illini fans!

Lorraine Pilcher

Dan Corso

July 23, 2009

Lynda, Cathy, and Bryan,

We were shocked and so saddened to hear about Howard. Dan has wonderful memories of the families being together. We are glad Jessica and Mollee were able to meet him and become part of the extended family. You are in our thoughts. Lots of love, Dan, Jessica, and Mollee

John & Mary Pelham

July 23, 2009

Lynda,

We were so shocked to learn about Howard. Immediately comes to mind all of those wonderful memories of the trips and times spent together, espcially in New York City for the initial Masters honor club. We laughed with Howard as we all climbed up into the crown of the Statue of Liberty -- he was right above us!

We will miss him deeply. He touched us in a profund way as our leader and friend. Please know you are in our hearts and prayers during this time.

Love,

Roger Cawiezell

July 23, 2009

Lynda,so sorry to learn of Howards'death.What a wonderful,talented and funny man.Howard was one of my Franklin hero's and you were his best girl so I loved you too. May God bless you and your family during this very sad time.

July 23, 2009

Your family is in our prayers.

Mr. and Mrs. Riley OBrien

July 23, 2009

I knew "Howdy" when he joined the Springfield Jaycees. A great and warm guy. God Bless. We all have to pass, but he led a wonderful lief.

Bill Dart, Past President of the Springfield Jaycees.

Dr. Bill Schroeder

July 23, 2009

Lynda I was truly saddened to learn of Howards death. I can remember vividly our times at ball games, Howard on the trip out west for the Rose Bowl with the bunny hop through the ball room and of course the famous bus trip to Memphis! Of all the people I,ever known Howard and you are truly some of the finest. God bless you the your family.

July 23, 2009

Dear Lynda, Cathy and Bryan,

Please know that I am thinking about you.

Hugs, Rose Tucker

Gary Huffman

July 23, 2009

Lynda and Cathy, words cannot express the loss that so many of us share with you. Howard touched the lives of all of us that came in contact with him. I feel fortunate to have know him, and will always remember his exuberance for life and his respect for others. He will be truly missed. Hail to the Chief!

Charles & Eleanor Sakris

July 23, 2009

Lynda & family:
Howard was an honest, funny and fantastic man. An exceptional leader.
May time heal your sorrow and may your warmest memories remain.
Our Sincere Sympathy

Brenda McGlasson

July 23, 2009

Linda, We are all saddend to hear of the passing of Howard. He was an exceptional man. I have had the privilege of working with him for many years at Franklin. Franklin Life was never the same after Howie left.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family.

July 23, 2009

Cathy and Brian, Please accept our heartfelt thoughts and prayers at this time. Your family has had a rough time lately with Brian's Dad's death and now this. Please know we are thinking of you and keeping your entire family in our prayers.
Sincerely,

Billy & Ginger Fisher

Jane Keeney

July 23, 2009

Dear Lynda, Cathy and family,
George and I were saddened to hear of Howard's death. He was such a great guy with a wonderful sense of humor-we still recall some of his jokes and laugh.Our prayers are with you-may all of your good memories help to lessen the pain.
Love, Jane and George

July 23, 2009

Dear Lynda
May your strength and courage sustain you during this devastating time.
Love, Susan

Anne Linxwiler

July 23, 2009

Dear Lynda and family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you;Howard was such an example for all of us and a real pilar in the community...we were indeed lucky to have known him! With our heartfelt sympathy,John and Anne Linxwiler

Joe Hughes

July 23, 2009

Please accept my heartfelt sympathies in your loss. Howard was a great leader in our community and we will miss him dearly here at UIS. God's presence comfort all of you in this time of loss and sorrow.

Bette Rankins

July 23, 2009

Mrs. Humphrey,

I would like to extend my deepest condolences to you and your family. I worked under the leadership of your husband for many years and he was ONE of A KIND, there were no barriers between his position with the company and my position. He was a great man and I always enjoyed talking with him, he also made time for all of us. I have also spoken with him regarding the books that he has written,; he was very proud of them. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Jim Lundquist

July 23, 2009

Linda and family,
Just a note to say how sorry I am to see that Howard passed away. He was a great guy and a good friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Jim Lundquist

Jim Podlinsek

July 23, 2009

Lynda: Since I will be unable to express my sympathies to you in person, I hope you will accept these few words of condolence. Some of us are lucky to have people in our lives that have a positive impact. For me Howard was one of those when I entered the business with Franklin in l974. He always had a kind word for me and never forgot to ask me about the condition of the burgers at Bill's Toasty in Taylorville. I know he touched many lives professionally and personally and mine was only one. But I cannot express fully the impact he had on me. Words like "love" and "respect" cannot be bantered around lightly. But those are two words I think of when the name Howard Humphrey comes to mind. I hope the good Lord appreciates Howard's sense of humor as well! May God bless you and yours. Respectfully-

Ginny Fahs

July 23, 2009

My heart, prayers and condolences go out to your entire family. Your father was such a happy, generous man and I know he will surely be missed by all.

I am so sorry for your loss and if there is anything I can do, please do not hestitate to contact me.

God Bless,

Chris Morris

July 23, 2009

My sincerest condolences to Cathy and family. As neighbors a couple of doors away, the Humphrey family was a big part of my youth. I remember fondly the times that we spent together- playing cards, riding the tandem bike through the neighborhood, etc.

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Cathy, and your entire family.

Rachel Costa Savage

July 23, 2009

Lynda and Cathy, my prayers and thoughts are with you. Howard was like a dad to me at Franklin. I knew I was always welcomed in his office and at your pond. God bless you.
Rachel Costa Savage

FRED BRISKER

July 23, 2009

LINDA AND FAMILY...YOU AND HOWARD WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY MEMORIES...CINDY AND I SPENT SO MUCH TIME WITH YOU GUYS AT ALL THE CONVENTIONS...HOWARD WAS A GREAT MAN AND A GREAT LEADER..I WILL NEVER FORGET THE NEW YORK TRIP AT THE WALDORF ASTORIA, THE BROADWAY SHOW MEL ROGERS, AND THE WHOLE NEW YORK TRIP..YOU WERE WITH ME WHEN CINDY CALLED YOU ABOUT MY DAD..AND NOW HOWARD GETS TO MEET UP WITH CINDY IN HEAVEN...GOD I MISS HER...AND YOU WILL MISS HOWARD...JUST REMEMBER I WILL BE THERE WITH YOU...FRED BRISKER

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