Howard Lee Irvine was born June 7, 1943, in Springfield, Missouri to Cecil and Lora Irvine.  He is preceded in death by both his parents and his wife, Sharon Irvine. Howard served in the Air Force from 1966 to 1970 as airplane mechanic for the F-101 Vodoo fighter planes. He was a lineman electrician for City Utilities in Springfield from 1970 to 1993, until a serious accident ended his career. He was then employed at Cox Health Systems until he retired.  

He is survived by his children, Melissa Ousley and her husband Tim, Michael Irvine and his wife Melodie, his grandchildren, Andrew Ousley, Easton Irvine and Harlynn Irvine and his brother, Donnie Irvine and his wife Nancy.  

He accepted Christ as his Savior as an adult , and was a member of Seminole Baptist Temple in Springfield.   

Howard enjoyed his family,  music, fishing, bird watching and feeding his squirrels.   He was a Chief’s fan and enjoyed watching games with his family.  He was an avid gardener when his health allowed.  He loved spending time outdoors and working in his yard.  He was loved by his neighbor children who fondly called him “Mr. Howard”. He loved his wife and was completely devoted to her care as her health failed. He was an amazing example of what it means to love your spouse as yourself. Toward the end of his life, as he was not able to go outside but he still had a goal of hand feeding his squirrels that ate at his feeder.