Howard Milton Moths, age 90 of Miles City, entered into heaven to meet Jesus, dying of natural causes.
Howard was born on February 26, 1930, to Franklin and Stella (Robison) Moths in Miles City, Montana, at Darcie Hospital, a Mothers-in-Waiting home. He grew up on Corral Creek in Custer County, Montana and attended Corral Creek School where his adventures riding his Shetland Pony (Daisy) to school provided many stories to tell. He graduated high school from CCDHS in 1948.
Because of the untimely death of Howard’s Dad in 1949, Howard became the man of the homestead at the tender age of 19. He assumed this responsibility in order to care for his mother and sisters, relinquishing his own dreams of being a lawyer. After a few years of ‘batching it’ on the ranch because his mom and sisters moved to town, the bachelor life lost its appeal. He fell in love with a lovely, young lady from Miles City, Emma “Lou” Ekstrom, whose foster parents were A.R. and Eva Bastian. Howard and Lou were married February 15, 1952.
They raised six children: Deborah, Rebecca, William, Pamela, Eva, and John. One of the deepest heartaches that Howard and Lou experienced was burying two children. Rebecca (Becky) died at the tender age of four due to cystic fibrosis. John (Johnny) died at the age of 25 in a car accident.
Howard and Lou made their home on Corral Creek where they resided until 1972, when they sold the ranch and moved to Miles City. Howard changed careers and became a building contractor. Howard’s ability to change careers was a blessing to the community. He completed numerous building and remodeling projects throughout town, including re-siding homes, building pole barns, additions to homes; he left a physical mark.
Howard left a spiritual mark too. As a young father, he realized his need for a savior, and accepted Jesus Christ into his life. He faithfully followed Jesus in baptism, reading his bible and praying daily, and modeling this for his family. In a hand-written note to his children in 1997, Howard shared with them his “greatest hope and desire, above all else, was to see each of his family and friends gathered with me and those who have gone before us in the joyous presence of Jesus – who showed us the way, making it possible for us by his death and resurrection.”
He also enjoyed a family trip to Florida, multiple trips to Ohio to see Eva’s family, and of course, he loved to take the kids and grandkids fishing! When Howard retired, he spent his time having coffee at Gallagher’s, attending the activities of his grandkids, playing scrabble, listening to Paul Harvey, and watching Jeopardy.
Having experience with their own extended foster family, Howard and Lou welcomed and embraced into their home, a young woman Bonnie and her toddler son Michael. Bonnie eventually married Tim McGuire, extending their family with Brooke and Megan.
Howard was a lifelong learner. He embraced changes in technology, learning how to email and use the computer in his 70’s. He was very witty, had a way with words, and a good sense of humor, which would have helped him dance circles in any courtroom – had that been the path he followed.
Dad is survived by his children, Deb Schmeling, Bill (Sherrie) Moths, Pam (David) Nisley, Eva (David) Anderson. His grandchildren: Jamie (Euan Cameron) Schmeling, Levi (Marti) Schmeling, Amber (Josh) VanLaecken, Travis Moths, Libby (Adam Opstedahl) Nisley, Ryan (Courtney) Anderson, and Lauren (Hank) Lobel. His great grandkids: Kayleigh & Ryder, Serena & Mikayla, Madeline, Jackson & Griffin, Ellis & Walsh. His sister Olive Robinson, nieces and nephews. His family of the heart: Tim McGuire, Michael, Brooke, and Megan.
Dad was predeceased by his wife Lou, daughter Becky, and son John, parents Franklin & Stella Moths, sister Leona Hall, brother-in-law John Robinson and foster daughter Bonnie McGuire.
Should one wish, memorials be made in Howard’s name to YNOP (Your Network of Praise Radio), The Gideons, Trails End Ranch (Ekalaka, MT), The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, or the charity of one’s choice.
Howard’s Family would like to thank the many caregivers and medical professionals who have helped look after him over the past 10 years. Thank you to the friends in these communities who also helped enrich his life: Spearfish, SD, Miles City, MT, and Forsyth, MT. Above all, we thank our Generous God for giving to us this loving, caring, witty, hard-working, and fun dad, grandpa, uncle, great-grandpa. He has left a mark on all of us as well.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Private funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 17, 2020 at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. A live stream will be available at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com and clicking on Howards obituary page. A public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday December 16, 2020
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Private Services
Thursday December 17, 2020
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Celebration of Life
10:00 a.m.
Friday July 16, 2021
Grace Bible Church
3505 Stower St.
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday December 16, 2020
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Private Services
Thursday December 17, 2020
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Celebration of Life
10:00 a.m.
Friday July 16, 2021
Grace Bible Church
3505 Stower St.
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Denise Harvey says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find peace and comfort in cherished memories.
Denise and Jay Harvey
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
Deb and all the rest of the family-
I’m so very sorry to see that your Dad has passed away. May you all be comforted to know that many people have you in their hearts at this difficult time.
Carol Schneidt says
Hugs and prayers to all of Howards family! Always enjoyed visiting with him.
Cori Hanel Brubaker says
So sorry to hear about your Dad. Always enjoyed him when he did repairs or remodeling at the house, he even had cornbeef and cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day once when he was doing work for us.
Terry becker says
So sorry deb, Howard was a very good friend, he will be missed,he’s in a better place now.
Hal Gausman says
So sorry to hear that Howard passed away. I have great memories of our family get togethers. I remember Howard’s easy smile and encouragement for me and you other kids to not get into some mischief. He will be missed.
Ginger Huckins says
I am so sorry for the loss of your father and grandfather. He will be missed. Prayers to you and your family.
your neighbor says
my sympathy
Alisa says
So sorry for your loss
Kent Fandrich says
Sorry for your loss. I will always remember your dad and everything that he did to help out my grandmother, Sara Wohlgenant. He was a great man.
Paula says
Oh Deb. My friend. Gosh we’ve known each other a long time. I’m so sorry to see this. I hope you know how often I visited when I walked by. And he would yell hey and tell me he needed something. Thinking of you ALL.
James Arneson says
I am sorry for your loss Deb. I hadn’t seen your dad in years, but thought about him often. I remember back when he was doing carpenter work, your dad was an amazing man. May God comfort you and your family during this time of loss.
Ruben and June Opp says
Deb and all of the Moths family, We are so sorry to hear about your father,grandfather and great grandfathers passing, your dad and mom were very special friends for many years.Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.May God bless and comfort you all now and in the days to come.
Ruben and June Opp
Tammy Pecha says
So sorry for your loss.Howard was such a special man.You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim & Lavina Hall says
Deb, Pam & Bill….Your dad was a real gentleman and a man of faith.
Donna Leitholt-Taylor says
My sympathies, Howard was a sweetheart. I am picturing him and Lou reunited.
Ken and Vicki Hess says
Dear Deb and family. Sorry to hear that you lost your father, grandfather and great grandfather! Thinking of you all at this sad time. God bless and comfort you all.
Phyllis Anderson Stevens says
I am so sorry to hear about your dad! Mom and I were just talking about him the other day and how the memories were flowing! he is with the Lord now and we will see him again but it’s still so hard to lose a parent! You’re all in my thoughts and prayers!
Terri&Ray Schmidt says
We are so sorry for your loss, Deb. Please know we are thinking of you!
Kathi (Rooney) Pfeifle says
I was so very sad to hear of Howard’s passing. He was such a nice man. I always enjoyed talking to him at church. He will be missed. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
catherine emerson says
To all my cousins: Deb, Bill, Pam and Eva and their families. My deepest sympathy. I have the fondest memories of him. He was a godly man and was always ready to share his faith in Jesus Christ. I will miss seeing him when returning to Miles City for visits.
Maureen Larson says
I am so sorry for your loss. You and all your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Scott Leach says
I appreciate your dad and his faithfulness to the Lord. He always had an answer for a lot of things. Growing up in church, he was very steadfast in making God a priority. He will be always missed. Thanks for sharing your dad with us.
John and Nancy Gausman says
Very sorry to hear of Howards passing. Sincere condolences to family and friends. We have many warm memories of family get togethers. His strong strong faith through life is a comfort at this time.
Kathy Strub says
Many prayers and hugs to you my friend. I’m here if you need anything ❤️
Destiny Carlson says
Howard was one of my all time favorite coffee guys!! His genuine soul and caring spirit was such a blessing…God Bless you all!
Jim & Jan Bastian says
Deb, Pam, Bill, Eva.
Sorry to hear about Howard. Always remember those many family trips we use to take and meet up with the rest of the relatives. Howard did a wonderful job for us when he remodeled the Squire Shop for us.
Diana Elwood says
Dear Moths family, So sorry to hear of your loss, you are in our prayers.
Doris Bayles says
Just saw that you lost your dad but thankful to know he is in heaven. Praise God! Will talk to you later! I am home!!l Love you !!
Pam Rogge says
My prayers and condolences to Howard’s family at this time and in the days ahead.
Gloria Compton says
Praise the Lord for the fun memories before his passing and praying God’s peace and comfort for all.
Bruce Klapmeier says
Deb, Bill, Pam, and Eva, sorry for the loss of your father. We’re getting to that age. I love that picture you chose, he has that little smile before telling something funny. I enjoyed working with him at Dave and Pams. A talented man who lived his faith.
Ben, Patty, Aaron & Amy Blaquiere and Tess & Dustin Irgens says
Debbie, Jamie & family, Levi & family, Pam & family, Bill & family and Eva and family,
Howard always had a smile and was fun to visit with and listen to as well. He was so sweet to our family and the marble run he made my kids was just one of the sweet things he did for so many people. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers, hugs and love go to this family whom has always made our family so welcome. Debbie you have been so amazing to your dad and your daily visits and love were inspiring and I’m sure made your dad’s life so much more content. Love you!
Eileen and Vern Entzel says
Deb and family. Sorry to hear about about your dad. You are in our prayers. May the good memories help in the days ahead
Roger Gullickson says
Deb, Bill, Pam, Eva and Families, We are deeply sorry for your loss & grateful for the family gatherings Howard attended w/ his gentle smile and warm kindness. Thinking of you with sympathy during this difficult time and wishing you strength for the days ahead. Love, Terry and Rock Gullickson
Deb Bartholomew says
Deb and Families:
I am so very sorry to hear the loss of your Dad. Always remember “When A Loved One Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes A Treasure”. He will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. Treasure your memories as they will help get you thru difficult days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Beth Ann Wiedeman says
Deb, Jamie and family: my thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in your faith and knowledge that Howard is with the Lord.
Bill and Sandy Jensen says
All of Howard’s family are in our thoughts and prayers. Our sincere sympathy for you all during this time.
Cindy Berg says
Deb and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very sad time. Treasure your memories, as he left you a wonderful legacy. God bless.
Leo and JoAnn Jurica says
Our condolences to the Moths family. Leo enjoyed working with and visiting with Howard as they worked together on a couple of remodeling projects. We both enjoyed the conversations around the kitchen table as well as his expertise. God bless!
Jim and Betty Anderson says
What a special person he was in our family. We have so many wonderful memories of him from the time he married Emma Lou. My sister and I were young and participated in their wedding in the big living room at the ranch. We were excited and delighted. We got to visit the family while they were still on the ranch and I have memories of many family gathering through the years. We send our love and blessings to all of you, He was a wonderful man of faith and such an example to us all. Betty and Jim Anderson and family.
Mollie Phipps says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of sorrow. May you rejoice he is in Heaven with his father, and may time ease the aches in your hearts. Howard was one of a kind for sure.
Dee Mobley says
What joy there is in knowing that it’s not “Goodbye, Dad” but rather “See you later, Dad”. And yet, even knowing that there’s a great Reunion now going on, it IS always hard for those left behind. May the Holy Spirit wrap His arms around you all and give you His peace, His comfort.
Jim Blenkarn says
Deb, Bill, Pam and Eva,
So sorry for your time of grief. Your Dad was a special uncle and your ranch was such a fun place to visit as a child. I can remember Uncle Howard getting angry with Bill and I for throwing firecrackers at the chickens! Godspeed to you Uncle Howard.
The Best to you all,
Jim and Vikki Blenkarn
Patti (Green) Ireland says
To Howard’s children: I’m so sorry for your loss. My mom considered your mom to be one of her best friends, so we often found ourselves at your house. Your dad was funny and kind. I’m sure you’ll miss him very much, but I know his strong faith will give you comfort. The assurance that he is reunited with other loved ones and that you will see him again is such a comfort.
Stephani Schumacher-Collins says
Eva, was sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. You certainly look like your dad!
Take care,
Stephani Schumacher-Collins
Leah Donovan says
Deb, Pam, Eva, and Bill, so sorry to hear about Howard and the saddness you must feel. I know Dad will miss him as well. My thoughts, prayers, and love are with all of you.
Leah Mann Donovan
Jane Viall says
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Your dad is certainly enjoying the eternal life God plans for each of us if we accept the sacrifice of Christ, which your father was completely committed to. Losing a parent is always painful, even when we would not wish them back. I will pray God will bless and strengthen you in the months to come.
Cheryl Russell says
Deb and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I pray your cherished memories will bring you comfort and knowing that heaven rejoiced to receive him home with Jesus will bring you peace. Although, I didn’t know your dad, I know that he was a remarkable and wonderful father because of the legacy of faith, love and devotion he brought out in you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. With Love & Blessings, Cheryl
G says
Debbie and family : you are in my thoughts and prayers
Sandi Bruce says
Debbie and family : you are in my thoughts and prayers
Ann Atkinson says
I’m so sorry for your loss.
My deepest sympathy.
Lance Clark says
Pam and siblings,
Celebration of life — funerals isn’t an easy time.
Thoughts of your parents— your Dad was genuine, sincere and full of abundant love!
May you have peace during this time and assurance of his passage to heaven!
Treasure the joy, treasured memories of Howard’s life and love!
Lance Clark
Darlene Clark
Herman Venable says
To the Moths family. Howard was instrumental in remodeling my house at 502 South Strevell and then my office at 28 North Montana. I was a baby Christian and Howard set a good pace to help me get closer to the Lord. He always sang Christian hymns as he worked and that impressed me because I had never been around Christians. He was proud of the work he did on the house and on completion, he brought Lou over to show her what all he had done. I will always remember Howard for his cheerful manner along with his abiding love of his Savior. Later our family joined Grace Community Church and became fast friends with Lou. What more can one man say of another than he loved the Lord, served Him with all his might, and that he was always ready to share his love of Jesus with whoever would listen. I know that as he closed his eyes, he heard his Savior say, well done Howard.
Herman Venable says
Herman Venable says
To the Moths family. Howard was instrumental in remodeling my house at 502 South Strevell and then my office at 28 North Montana. I was a baby Christian and Howard set a good pace to help me get closer to the Lord. He always sang Christian hymns as he worked and that impressed me because I had never been around Christians. He was proud of the work he did on the house and on completion, he brought Lou over to show her what all he had done. I will always remember Howard for his cheerful manner along with his abiding love of his Savior. Later our family joined Grace Community Church and became fast friends with Lou. What more can one man say of another than he loved the Lord, served Him with all his might, and that he was always ready to share his love of Jesus with whoever would listen. I know that as he closed his eyes, he heard his Savior say, well done Howard.
Christie and David Jacobson says
Remembering many wonderful times with Howard, Lou, and my cousins. What dear people you have all been in my life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Much love, Christie (McSweyn) and David Jacobson
Ramona Stephens Kurkowski says
This breaks my heart for the whole family. My prayers are with you.
Clyde and Kathy says
To Howard’s family, what a wonderful heritage was given to you all through the life of this man. I was impacted more than once by the thoughtful considerate way Howard treated me when we met. I have no doubt that he is in his heavenly home rejoicing with his Savior. I am sure the family will miss him, but I pray you are comforted by the memories of the time you spent with him over the years. God bless you all.
Cynde Jo Gatlin says
Sending prayers