Henry Lee Howe

LTC (Ret) Henry Lee Howe, age 84, died April 26, 2023, following a hemorrhagic stroke.  Born January 22, 1939, in Stevens Pt. WI, he grew up in South St. Paul, Minnesota. He was active in Civil Air Patrol in high school, serving as Cadet Commander his senior year.  He entered the third class of the U.S. Air Force Academy, graduating in 1961 with a rating as Navigator.  His 28 years of service included serving as navigator instructor and Flight Examiner; navigator of reconnaissance aircraft in Vietnam, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross; and manager and engineer for defense projects.  He earned a MS degree in Electrical Engineering at Colorado State University.  He retired in 1985 and began working as an avionics systems engineer for military contractors, retiring in 2004.

He married Peggy Ogden in 1964, and they were blessed with son Eric and daughter Tricia.  The family enjoyed his three-year tour in West Germany.  Peggy and he moved to Georgetown in 2011.  

Henry loved to travel. He drove a pick-up truck with cab-over-camper with Peggy and toddler Eric from Colorado to Arkansas in 1969. He converted a maxi-van for touring in Europe 1977-1980.  Peggy and he visited all seven continents.  

He was devoted to Christ and his church, especially developing men’s ministries. He served on the national board of Lutheran Men in Ministry and was a leader in the men’s retreat, “One Year to Live.” He served as interim executive director of a Christian camp near Denton. He initiated the Texas Ramp Project for his church in Georgetown. He was Director of Communications for TX Wing, Civil Air Patrol, for 5 years. He was an enthusiastic supporter of Peggy in her 35 years as an ordained Lutheran pastor.  

He is survived by Peggy, spouse of 58 years; son Eric, spouse Elizabeth and daughter Acadia; daughter Tricia, spouse Tom; his sister Sue, spouse Darrell of Florida and Minnesota; nieces, nephews and their children.

A worship service giving thanks for Henry’s life of service and celebrating new life in Christ will be held on Saturday, June 17, at 11 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 510 Luther Drive, Georgetown. Interment of his cremains will be made at the U.S. Air Force Academy at a later date. Messages may be posted on The Caring Bridge for Henry L. Howe, USAFA ’61. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Christ Lutheran Church or a nonprofit organization of your choice.