Karen Jane Howard

Madison, WI-Karen J. Howard passed away on June 22, 2025. She was born on October 26, 1935 in Creston, Neb., to Louis Boning and Hulda (Sanders) Boning. Karen earned her undergraduate degree in Home Economics University of Nebraska, Lincoln. She went on to earn a master’s degree from UNL. Karen spent many years employed at the University of Wisconsin, Madison Extension System in several leadership positions. In her retirement years, Karen greatly enjoyed spending time at the cabin in Vilas County, Wis. Karen was married to Prof. W. Terry Howard for more than 50 years until his passing in 2017. Their children, Steven L. Howard, SFC, US. Army, retired, lives In Owatonna, Minn., Matthew C. Howard, Senior Programmer, QCI Inc., resides in Ames, Iowa. Their daughter, Rachel E. Howard lives in Madison, Wis.

Karen is survived by 3 children, and 5 grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.

Karen Howard was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Ann Boning, Creston Neb.; brothers, John F Boning, Littleton Colo., Thomas “Toby” Boning, Creston, Neb.

The family wishes to thank Peggy Schumdlach of Oregon, Wis. for the many years of service, friendship, and care she provided for Karen. We are truly grateful.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 14 at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Rd., from 12-1 p.m. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services

3610 Speedway Road    Madison

608-238-3434