John Phillip Howe, 78, of rural Humboldt was born on October 11, 1947, in Humboldt, Nebraska to Homer Edward and Bertha Louise (Scholl) Howe. He attended Bratton Union Consolidated Schools north of Humboldt and graduated with the class of 1965. John continued his education attending the University of Nebraska in Lincoln where he received a degree in 1971. He then returned home to farm with his brother Tom while working the night shift at O.A. Cooper Feed Mill in Humboldt.
On April 5, 1975, John was united in marriage to Sherry Volker at Trinity Lutheran Church in Auburn, Nebraska. To this union three children, Caleb, Niki, and Kristal were born. The couple made their home and raised their family near Humboldt, Nebraska. John, or “Howard” as he was known by many, enjoyed tractors, fishing, visiting with friends and neighbors, and most of all, watching his grandchildren play.
John passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at his home in rural Humboldt, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of seventy-eight years, three months, and three days. He is preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law.
John is survived by his loving wife Sherry of rural Humboldt, children: Caleb Howe and wife Megan of rural Humboldt, Niki Pecka of Lincoln, Kristal Howe-Brown and wife Liz of Sebastopol, CA; grandchildren: Aly, Clayton, and PJ Howe; Sloan and Logan Pecka, and Brody and Elle Brown, his brother Tom Howe of rural Humboldt, brothers-in-law: Lin Volker and wife Sarah of rural Humboldt, Terry Volker and wife Mary of Kearney, NE; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at a later date with inurnment at the Pleasant View Cemetery in rural Humboldt, Nebraska.
Memorial contributions may be given to the family’s choice with a later designation.
Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com
Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha St-Humboldt, NE 68376 (402) 862-2915