Howard John Lemons, 90, passed away on Thursday, August 19, 2021, at Ramsey Village in Des Moines, Iowa surrounded by his loving family.
Howard was born on May 23, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois. He was the son of Ernest and Marguerite (Schoolen) Lemons. Howard attended school in Albia and graduated with the class of 1950.
Howard was married to Phyllis Ann Buss on October 7, 1951, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Des Moines. Over the course of their marriage they were blessed with two sons, Ronald and David.
Howard honorably served his country with the United States Army, and spent 17 months in Europe. After his time in the military, he worked as a Diesel Mechanic for International Harvester, Cummins Midwest, and O’Halloran International before retiring in 1996.
Howard could fix almost anything he could get his hands on, and absolutely loved to work on cars in his spare time. He enjoyed all sorts of outdoor activities, hunting, camping, and fishing were some of his favorites.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 69 years, Phyllis Lemons, his two sons, Ron Lemons and Dave Lemons, his daughter-in-law Mandy Lemons, his grandchildren, Ellie, Alex, Lachlan, and Madelyn, and his great-granddaughter, Rocky.
Howard has reunited with his parents, Ernest and Marguerite Lemons, and his brother Jim Lemons.
A private family visitation will be held from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at Merle Hay Funeral Home, located at 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines. Private family memorial services will be at 3:30 p.m.
Those who wish to attend who cannot go in person can view the services over livestream at :
https://player.vimeo.com/video/590257593
Memorials may be directed to Hospice of the Midwest or Ramsey Village.
