Lowell F. Howard, age 85, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on January 19, 2026.

Lowell was born on October 22, 1940, on the family farm in Davis County, Iowa, to Ira Dow and Iva Ethel (Robinson) Howard. He grew to manhood on that farm, attended a one-room schoolhouse, and graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1958—roots he carried with pride throughout his life.

He married his high school sweetheart, Grace Loraine, and together they built a life grounded in love, hard work, and family. In 1962, Lowell and Loraine moved to Mesa, Arizona, where he would remain for the rest of his life.

Lowell was first and foremost a country boy at heart. He loved driving back country roads while listening to classic country music, and no National Park or historic landmark was ever too far for him to travel—he was always eager to see new places and lands. Known affectionately as “The Improviser,” Lowell had an inquisitive mind and an artist’s heart. He enjoyed woodworking, tinkering with gadgets, and was always looking for something new to learn. He also loved classic movies and cherished the time he spent helping and supporting his children.

A man of strong values, Lowell believed deeply in family, honesty, and simple pleasures—especially Crisco cake after a good beans, potatoes, and corn dinner. Lowell spent over 40 years as a Master Auto Mechanic with Jack Ross Lincoln Mercury, working at both the Mesa and Scottsdale locations until his retirement. During those years, he and Loraine also built a cabin in the mountains of Arizona, where they enjoyed many summers surrounded by family and fresh mountain air.

He is survived by his wife, Grace Loraine; his children Brenda Howard, Tracy (Tom) Myslinski, and Bryan Howard; and his grandson Britt (Yasmin) Myslinski.

Predeceased by his son, Darrin Howard,  his brother, William Henry and his parents.

Services will be held February 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Meldrum Mortuary in Mesa, Arizona.

Burial immediately to follow at City of Mesa Cemetery located at 1212 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ, 85201