Howard Dillow

Howard A. Dillow, age 76, of Iola, Kansas, passed away on March 7, 2026, at Allen County Regional Hospital.

Howard was born March 6, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, to Perry and Mildred Dillow. He graduated from Joliet High School and later attended Coffeyville Community College. After college, he married his former wife, Cheryl Johnson and lived in Joliet, Illinois. Their union was blessed with three sons, Stephen, Brian, and Michael.

Howard worked for Caterpillar Corporation as a supervisor. He later moved to Channahon, Illinois, where he became Vice President of the Channahon Emergency Ambulance Squad and volunteered his time as an EMT. During his years in Channahon, he formed lasting friendships with Scott Hammitt and Mike Rittof.

In 1985, Howard moved his family to Iola, Kansas. He worked at Midland Brake Company until 2010 when the company closed its doors. He later worked at Cameron until his retirement in 2013.

In 2012, Howard met Denise Byrd, who remained his companion until his passing. The two enjoyed traveling together and frequently visiting Branson. Their last trip together was a two-week stay in Hawaii.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Perry and Mildred Dillow, and his sons, Stephen, Brian, and Michael.

Howard is survived by his companion, Denise Byrd; Grandchildren Megan Ermel and husband Chase, Gavin Dillow and wife AnaMarie, Logan Dillow, Gracie Dillow, Morgan Dillow; and great-grandchildren Tinley, Creed, Crue, Tally, Augie Ermel, and Gunner Dillow. He will also be missed by John Byrd and wife Kathy, Eli Byrd and many other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 1883 HWY 54, Iola, Kansas 66749. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery. Memorials in Howard's memory may be made to Wings of Warriors and left in the care of Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Condolences may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.