Walter Milton Howell's Obituary
Walter M. (Milt) Howell passed away March 24, 2023, while in hospice care.
Walt was born in Dallas, TX 95 years ago to Bessie Irene Howell and Graham Woods, living in Arkadelphia, AR before moving to Olathe, KS, at the age of 10. He graduated from John P. St. John High School where he excelled in football and track.
After high school Walt enlisted in the US Navy and served until 1948, being honorably discharged. After attending Ft. Scott Junior College, he moved back to Olathe and would work for Southwestern Bell and AT&T, retiring in 1988, after 38 years. He never knew a stranger and was known as the “telephone man” and is remembered fondly by all who knew him. Walt would continue to work for the next 15 years at Olathe School District in the Food Production Center.
Walt and Illah shared a love of travel which took them to several European countries, as well as, Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, Tahiti, and several other Caribbean cruises.
When he and Illah (Fife) moved to Charlotte, NC, he would say what he missed most about Olathe was the Monday coffee group at ’56 Restaurant.
As a member of Fellowship Baptist Church, now Blue Valley Baptist Church, Walt served as Deacon, Trustee, Sunday School Superintendent, and usher.
Walt is survived by his wife Illah of 69 years, children, Chris and Julie of Charlotte, NC and Tracy of Olathe, KS, granddaughter Kate of Maryland, step grandsons John of Georgia, Timothy, and Phil of Delaware.
There will be no services. Ashes to be spread at Walter's favorite beach on the Carolinas coast.
James Funeral Home is assisting the family, online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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