Henry James Howardson, age 78 of Watertown, formerly of Clark, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at the VA Hospice Cottage in Sioux Falls.
Henry was born March 2, 1948 in Watertown, S.D. to Ignatius Ambrose (I.A.) and Edna (Meyer) Howardson and was raised on the family farm southwest of Clark. He attended school in Clark and then worked for his uncle Melvin Meyer, installing direct-dial telephone systems in telephone offices throughout the Midwest.
On June 11, 1969, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He completed basic training at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, Calif. and later served nearly two years in Vietnam. On June 10, 1975, Henry was honorably discharged from active service.
Following his duty in Vietnam, he continued working for his uncle Melvin. While working in New Hampton, Iowa, he met Jane Ann Lynch. The two were married on August 11, 1972, and soon returned to the family farm, where they built a life together an raised their daughters: Amy Elisabeth, Erin Ann and Amber Jo.
Henry loved the farm and took great pride in raising Hereford and Black Angus cattle. His cows were more than livestock—many had a name in addition to their tag number. His quiet, gentle nature working with animals was noticed by all. He also had a special place in his heart for animals of all kinds, including his beloved dogs and cats. Stella, his English Bulldog and honorary Marine Corps mascot, held a particularly special place in his heart. Molly, a rescue Pit Bull mix, was another cherished companion. Dottie, the current resident MalShi, is missing her morning treats and her special nap times with Henry.
Henry loved a good conversation around the kitchen table with coffee and cookies. He enjoyed visiting with family, friends and just about anyone willing to listen. Visiting on the telephone was also a favorite pastime, and he was always happy to spend a little—or a lot—of time on it. His stories, humor and willingness to visit will be deeply missed.
Grateful for having shared in his life of 54 years is his wife, Jane Howardson; his daughters: Amy Howardson and Erin Howardson, both of Watertown; his siblings: Edy Allerdings of Huron, Glenn and Mildred (Millie) Ulvestad of Harrisburg, Don and Virginia (Ginny) Davis of Abilene, Kan. and John Howardson of Dell Rapids.
Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Ignatius Ambrose (I.A.) and Edna Howardson; an infant brother, Leo William Howardson, brother Ambrose Howardson and sisters Margaret Howardson, Mary Jane Rist, Magdalene Allerdings and Ann Schied; and his daughters, Mary Beth and Amber.
Henry's life was one of farming, animals, stories and plenty of conversation. He will be remembered for his love of his family, his devotion to the farm and the land and the many memories and laughs he shared with those who knew him.
A private family burial service will be held at the Saint Boniface Cemetery in Clark. Military honors will be conducted by the American Legion Cagley-Smith Post 60 of Clark and Representatives of the U.S. Marine Corp.
You are welcome to join the family in sharing memories of Henry with a cup of coffee and a cookie at the Ullyot Building - Community Room on 120 North Commercial Street in Clark on Saturday, October 10 from 1:00-3:00 p.m.
