James N. Howard, 88, passed away early Friday morning, August 3, 2018 while surrounded by the love of his family.

James was born in South Bend, IN to the late Francis and Mary (Cobb) Howard on April 21, 1930. James was a U.S. Navy veteran, past member of the American Legion in Indianapolis, past member of Masonic Lodge #130 in Mishawaka, and received his 50 year pin as a Free Mason. In his younger years, he was a rodeo rider. He was also a carpenter, poet, and artist. He shared his talents with his family and friends.

His works graced the walls of his home for all to appreciate. He also loved his dogs, playing cribbage and chess, and was remembered for his love of Christmas time and decorating every room for all to enjoy. The season was special to James as it was a time for all his family to gather and share love, stories & most of all, good food. His patience was unmatched along with his dedication & loyalty to his family.

James is survived by his wife, Patricia; sons, Timothy James (Judi) Howard of Granger, IN, Christopher John Howard of Elkhart, IN, Frank (Caroline) Flowers of Mishawaka, IN, and Jeff (Lynn) Flowers of Granger, IN; daughters, Sharon (Joseph) Wawrzyniak of South Bend, IN, Laurie (Brian) McLemore of Osceola, IN, and Pamela (Jim) Howard-Webster of Fredericktown, OH; sister, Donna Mae (Mike) Schelstraete of Centerville, MI, 20 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Patrick Howard; grandchildren, Ryan Moore and Zachary Flowers, and his brother, Robin Lou Howard.

Visitation for James will be held from 5 pm – 8 pm, Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home located at 10776 McKinley Hwy, Osceola, IN.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am, Wednesday, August 8, 2018 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 52553 Fir Road, Granger, IN, followed by military honors and interment in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Family will receive friends one hour prior to Mass at St. Pius.

In honor of his legacy, Mr. Howard's family requests that memorial donations be directed to Southern Care Hospice Services, 1626 E. Day Rd., Mishawaka, IN 46545 .

o share a remembrance of James or to offer condolences to his family please visit www.chapelhillmemorial.com .