Donald A. Howe

Donald A. “Windy” Howe, 99 formerly of Streator passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at his daughter’s home in Irving, Texas.

He was born November 16, 1923 in Streator, a son of Anthony and Mary Anna (Newborn) Howe.  He married Nellie Irene Perkins on April 22, 1946 in Streator.  She preceded him in death on March 15, 2010.

Surviving are two daughters, Peggy Liptak of Irving, TX and Shirley (Jim) Greathouse of Harvest, AL; 4 grandchildren, Lisa Hawthorne, Lee Hawthorne, Dawn Welch and Denise Gardner; 9 great grandchildren; and 3 great great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Irene; a brother, Richard Howe; and a sister in infancy.

Donald enrolled in the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1940 at the age of 17.  He was inducted in the Army in 1942 and served as a cook and then a medic with the 605^th Medical Clearing Company with a short stay in the South Pacific in New Guinea.

He was a hard worker over his years.  He worked as a correctional officer at the Pontiac State Prison for a short time, Owens Illinois Glass, Anthony Body Company in Streator, a foundry in Streator and then retiring from Transco in Streator.

Donald loved planting his garden and flowers at home.  He was quite the talker so he was nick named by his close friends as “Windy”.  He also loved to read his Bible and quote Bible verses.

He was a true musician, heart and soul.  He played the steel guitar and dobro for about 30 years.  His country band, “The Illinois Valley Boys” based out of Streator, appeared in local areas and programs.  This lead to starting his own music store “Don’s Music Supply” with the help of his wife, Irene, in their home in 1959.  Lather he built his store on 12^th Street and ran from 1974 to 1999.

His love for country music was with him until the day he died.

Cremation rites will be accorded and services will be held at a later date.  Burial will be in Phillips Cemetery, Streator.  Hagi & Schultz Funeral Home, Streator is in charge of arrangements.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Shriners Children’s Hospital.