Howard James Werner, 78, of Westphalia, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital.

He was born March 22, 1945, in Folk, the son of Harry Conrad and Hilda Emma (Ortmeyer) Werner.

Howard graduated in 1964 from Fatima High School.

He married Carmela Ann Goscha in 1968.  They were married for twenty-five years and raised three children.

He was a welder for ABB and in earlier years worked for Play-Mor Trailers and General Motors. Howard retired in March 2007.

He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Schubert.

He was raised in Folk where he gained a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife.  He enjoyed quiet mornings watching deer, fishing, landscaping, playing pitch, riding his four-wheeler on the family farm and trails, wood working, and making furniture for his family and friends.  He built his home in 1981.  Music was a huge part of his life, and he could play the accordion, harmonica, guitar, organ, trumpet, bugle, and tuba.  He enjoyed many jam sessions with his family and friends.  His favorite times were with his family especially if they were on the Werner family farm.

Survivors include three children, Jeanette (Berry) Wiggins, Westphalia; Wayne (Wendy) Werner, Westphalia; Erin (Shannon) Merritt, Memphis, TN; four grandchildren, Ashley (Seth) Thoenen, Megan (Chris) Goldberg, Taylor Werner, and Brett Werner; one great-grandson, William Goldberg; and three siblings, Harriet Schmidt, St. Thomas; Hazel (Kenny) Braun, Wardsville; and Helen Grapes, Lohman.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Harold (Betty) Werner; two brothers-in-law, Ray Schmidt and Eddie Grapes; and a nephew, David Werner.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m., Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Trimble Funeral Homes, Westphalia with a prayer service at 7 p.m. with Pastor Gerald Scheperle officiating.

Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to St. John’s Lutheran Church, Schubert or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Westphalia. trimblefunerals.com