John Thomas Howard

John Thomas Howard, 86, Grand Forks, died Monday, November 20, 2023 at Edge Wood Vista, East Grand Forks. 

John & Mary Dawn (Kemnitz) Peterson, met in Grand Forks and were married for 55 years.  They raised 8 children together.  

John was born September 26, 1937 in Lepanto, Arkansas, the son of Thomas and Mary (Barber) Howard.  He grew up in Lepanto, where he attended school, graduating in 1955. 

In August 1956, John enlisted in the US Air Force, where he proudly served until August of 1977.  He was a member of the security forces serving abroad in Thailand, Germany, and many other Air Force Bases throughout the US. 

In 1978, John became the Chief of Police of Thompson ND.  He was proud to serve his community for 22 years until his retirement in 2000.  

John enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his children and grandchildren for many years.  He and Mary Dawn loved to travel in their RV and visited nearly every state throughout the US.  

John is survived by his children: Diana (Gary) Kunz, Jim (Tammy) Howard, Cindy (Galen) Ibes, Marlyce Peterson, Valerie Peterson, Shelly (Roger) Bondy, Brenda Peterson, 18 Grandchildren and 27 Great Grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, daughter Sherry, Grandsons: Michael Peterson & Matthew Howard.  Sisters: Norma, Agnes, Bobbi, and Brother Tommy.  

John & Mary Dawn were long time members of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Grand Forks.  

The family would like to extend many thanks to the Ethos Hospice team and staff at Edgewood for their kindness and compassionate care provided to our Dad.

Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Amundson Funeral Home. 
Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the start of the service. 
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN, C/O Don Roberts 815 Duke Dr. Apt 206, Grand Forks, ND 58201.