Robert W. Howard

It is with a heavy heart that we wish to inform you of the passing of Robert “Whitey” Howard, Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 2:22 AM. He had been recovering from a broken femur, a cancerous tumor behind his right eye, and had also been struggling with dementia as well. Whitey passed peacefully at his home in Aurora, Indiana. He always made the best of life with his wife, Judie and his family… as well as with his many, many friends in the United States and around the world.

Whitey was one of 14 children and is survived by his remaining sister Louise Makowski (94). He was married to his wife, Judith Powell Howard for 62 years, had 2 children… Robert Howard II and Linda Howard Bittner and 3 grandchildren… Benjamin Howard, Cassandra Howard and Julie Bittner. He grew up and lived in northwest New Jersey then settled into retirement in Aurora, Indiana in 2002.

Whitey started and managed his own business, HOSICA LABS for 40 + years and worked alongside his wife and son for many of those years. They built and serviced electronic test equipment and performed calibrations for various applications.

Robert Howard was a 42 year Navy Reserve Veteran and served as a Chief Petty Officer. He was unable to join the regular service due to the Sullivan Act as he was the only surviving son in his family. His father was also a Navy serviceman.

Mr Howard was always active in community service and outreach programs both in the United States and internationally. He was a member of many local and regional organizations including Rotary International and the Izaak Walton League of America. He made many friends along the way and had a tremendous positive impact on the lives of many adults and children that he spent time with.

Whitey and his wife Judie had many interests including motorcycle racing and touring, skiing, camping, travelling, golf, fishing and spending quality time with family. He was most passionate about collecting and competing with antique muzzle loading firearms. He was a championship competitor in both National & International shooting programs, winning many trophies and awards for his skills. He was also a member for over 50 years of the North-South Skirmish Association, as part of the Harris’ Light Cavalry team…a Civil War period shooting competition held regionally and nationally. Whitey enjoyed competing in shooting sports with his son, daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter. He and his wife travelled the world during many of these events, forming many lifelong friendships and meeting amazing people along the way.

Church services will be held on Saturday December 9, 2023 at 1:30PM at the First Baptist Church of Aurora 6060 Blair Rd., Aurora, IN 47001 812-926-1900. Family and friends are welcome. To honor Robert William Howard’s 42 year Navy reserve career, there will be a military honor guard ceremony inside following the traditional church services, which will include the folding and presentation of the flag and a gun salute outside at its conclusion.

Following the church service, we are offering a Celebration of Life gathering at 4:30 PM at the Izaak Walton League of America-Mt Healthy Chapter hall in Northgate area of Cincinnati. 3420 Bevis Lane Cincinnati, Ohio 45251 Everyone is welcome to come and share in good food, drinks, and storytelling in honor of Whitey, and all that he has contributed to and shared in our lives. Please feel welcome to change into more comfortable attire for the event at IWLA. This will be a casual event.

Please contact Linda Bittner with any questions or concerns: Linda 513-600-1955 wildartsafaris@gmail.com