Eric W. Howard

Eric W. Howard, age 42, of Wykoff, MN, passed away June 21, 2021 after sustaining a head injury working on his family’s farm.

Eric Wayne Howard was born February 28, 1979 in Spring Valley, MN to Terry and Diane (Holm) Howard. Eric attended Spring Valley Public School until Spring Valley and Wykoff consolidated to become Kingsland Public School while he was in 8th grade. It was at this time he met his wife and soul mate, Chris Boland. They were married September 11, 1999. 

Eric and Chris were blessed with 4 sons and Eric made the focus of his life demonstrating his love for his family through the time he spent with them. He was involved in all of their activities. He worked side by side with them on the farm and in the repair shop, teaching them everything he knew.  His sons possess a strength of character, hard work, and desire to help others because of his guidance and love. 

People will remember Eric as a softball and youth basketball coach, mechanic, farmer, mentor, teacher, and friend. He was the one people called when they needed help, advice, or friendship. Eric embodied kindness and strength and his presence was a comfort to those around him. 

Eric was a quiet man who pushed himself to live by example, always working harder, longer, and trying to do the most he could. Good was never good enough, he pushed himself to be exceptional. Even when God called him to finally rest, Eric had to “do a little more.” Eric donated his organs and tissues to give life to others. He lives on within them, as well as the many friends and family that he leaves behind. 

Eric is survived by his wife, Chris Howard of Wykoff; sons Lucas, Seth, Cody, and Quin; parents Terry and Diane Howard; Brothers Scott (Kristina) of Spring Valley, MN, Matt (Megan) of Racine, MN and sister Rebecca (Kurt) Vanderploeg of Albert Lea, and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Doris and Johnie Holm and Bernard and Anne Howard.

Memorials can be directed to the Faith United Methodist Church Kitchen Project to continue the work of his grandma, Anne Howard.

Funeral services for Eric will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 30, 2021 at Faith United Methodist Church in Spring Valley with Pastor Mark Woodward officiating. Burial will be held at Spring Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 29 at Faith United Methodist Church and will continue for one hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

Online condolences may be left at Hindtfuneralhomes.com

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