Obituary-Howard E. Hook 

Born in Freeport, Illinois, on January 26, 1944, Howard was known for his strength, hard work, humor, and unwavering love for his family. He lived a life built on dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance. Whether through his work, his guidance, or simply his presence, he left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him.

Howard spent much of his life working as a farmer and feed salesman for Moorman’s Feed, taking pride in providing for those he loved. He believed in showing up, working hard, and doing what needed to be done, even when life was difficult. Those lessons became part of the legacy he leaves behind.

More than anything, Howard loved his family. He was a father who taught through both words and example. His children will remember his strength, wisdom, stubbornness, laughter, and the moments that made him uniquely him. Though imperfect like all of us, he loved deeply in the ways he knew how, and that love will carry on through generations.

He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and spending time around the campfire cooking hot dogs with his family. He could often be found watching his favorite baseball team, the Chicago Cubs. Howard had a way of making people laugh, telling stories, and bringing his personality into every room he entered.

Howard is survived by his children, John, Jeff (Julie), Suzanne (James), and Howard Jr. “JR” (Eva); their mother, Betty; stepdaughter Debbie; grandchildren Rachel (Andy), Darrin (Amy), Ashley, and Ivan; step-grandchildren Josh (Lauri), Jordan, and Shianne; siblings Ed (Kay) and Ellen (Rick); along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; parents, Alvin and Verna Hook; and sister, Wilma Korf.

A visitation service to celebrate his life will be held at McDonald Funeral Home in Milledgeville, Illinois, on June 8, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the man he was.

Though the hearts of those who loved him are heavy, they take comfort in knowing his struggles are over, and his spirit is at peace. His memory will live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave. As his family shared, “He taught us more by how he lived than by what he said,” and “He waited a lifetime for the Cubs to win it all, and he celebrated like a kid when they finally did.”