Howard P. Mendenhall Obituary

Howard P. Mendenhall, age 76, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Known affectionately as "How," "Sarge," and "Mr. Ho-Ho," Howard was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and bonus dad. Above all else, he was a family man who loved his family more than anything.

Howard was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on March 6, 1950. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara "Barb" Ann Mendenhall (nee Benz); his children, Bobbie Jo (Sam), Katie (Matt), and Michael (Kayla); his bonus son, Joe; and his 11 beloved grandchildren: Sai, Ari, Bishop, Kida, Cortana, Peyton, Mason, Aubrey, Kasen, Oliver, and Bennett. He is also survived by his siblings, Steve, Lynne, and Beth. He was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws.

Howard proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. His patriotism remained an important part of who he was throughout his life. A Journeyman Wood Finisher by trade, Howard proudly owned and operated his own business for 40 years. He was a hardworking and talented craftsman who could build, fix, or create just about anything.

Of all his accomplishments, Howard's greatest was his family. He was the ultimate "Fun Dad.". Playful and adventurous, Howard had a gift for making sure everyone around him was having fun, too. He rarely missed a school or sporting event and especially looked forward to holidays and special occasions when the family could gather, laugh, tell stories, and simply enjoy being together.

At family gatherings, Howard could often be found downstairs in the rec room watching a Packers game, shooting pool, throwing darts, and perhaps enjoying a Yukon Jack shot. His Coors Light was rarely far away. He was always willing to lend a hand to someone who needed it and will be remembered for his honesty, loyalty, generosity, strong work ethic, and the love he so freely gave to the people in his life. His dear friends Paul, John, and Doris held a special place in his heart. Howard also had a soft spot for his faithful Shih Tzu companions. Most recently, Lexi was rarely far from his side.

Some of Howard's happiest times were spent camping with family and friends, where he earned the well-deserved title of "Pudgie Pie King" around the campfire. He loved grilling and cooking for the people he cared about, whether at home or at the campsite. Over the years, Howard enjoyed golfing, waterskiing, swimming, racquetball, horseshoes, cornhole, and rollerblading. For many years, he hosted the Men's Horseshoe Pitchin' League, bringing friends and family together for competition, laughter, and plenty of good memories.

Howard leaves behind a lifetime of memories: laughter and stories, projects and adventures, friendships and traditions, and so much love. But his greatest legacy is the family he adored and the certainty each of them carries that they were deeply and completely loved by him.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Fun Dad, Grandpa, How, Sarge, and Mr. Ho-Ho. Go Pack Go! Howard's family will honor his memory with a Celebration of Life and Military Honors at a later date. Details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.