Linda Sue Howard

Linda Sue Howard

August 09, 1954 - November 19, 2025

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Obituary

MONONA - Linda Howard, age 71, of Monona, passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at SSM Health-St. Mary's Hospital. She was born on August 9, 1954, in Milwaukee, the daughter of Thomas and Dorothy (Van Ert) Haynes.


Linda graduated from Wauwatosa West High School in 1972. She was united in marriage to Steven Howard on September 9, 1973, in Waukegan, Ill. She worked as an LPN at both the VA Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital.


Linda was remarkably artistic and crafty-she could create something out of nothing. She loved doing science experiments with her grandkids, sewing, baking, and making cookies and special cakes. She was an avid reader and always had a book in her hand. Deeply interested in politics and current events, she stayed well-informed and engaged with the world around her.


She gave generously of her time, volunteering at the McKenzie Center, helping with maple syrup tours, and working at the Wisconsin History Museum, where she also led tours. She was a Girl Scout leader for both Lisa and Erin, volunteered at IHM throughout her children’s time there, and even ran the IHM haunted house. Their home was the neighborhood gathering place-always open, welcoming, and full of life.


Linda loved swimming, biking, traveling, hiking, and spending time in nature with her husband. She was warm, open-hearted, and accepting of everyone she met.


Linda is survived by her husband, Steven; four children, Lisa Anne Schwarz, Erin Howard, Sarah (Ron Knepper) Howard and Michael (Ashley Finley) Howard; grandchildren, George Gehin, and Evalyn and Beatrice Knepper; brother, Richard (Sharon) Haynes; sisters, Chris (Dick) Sonnenberg and Jenny (Mike) Rufflo; and nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Dorothy.


A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Please dress colorfully in memory of Linda.


The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Mary's Hospital for all of their wonderful care given to Linda and her family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420



Events

24
Visitation
Mon Nov 24, 2025 @ 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Get Directions
24
Memorial Service
Mon Nov 24, 2025 @ 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Get Directions

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Memories

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Linda
AH
A Memorial Tree was planted for Linda Howard
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison
JR
Jennifer Rufflo
Other •
Linda was not only a sister but an amazing friend. I loved how when anyone was unwell she'd send or bring a cozy blanket and every time you used it it was like getting a big hug from her . She always talked about Steve and the kids with such love and pride. She loved the life she made and told me she'd change nothing. She was a good cook and was the first one to teach me to cook something that was edible. It was a chicken pot pie. She was funny and fun and we enjoyed being sister's. She was there in a heartbeat if I needed her. She will be so so missed but my love for her is constant and I know I'll see her again.
DF
Damien & Hannah Finley
Other •
Our deepest sympathy to the Howard family. Our thoughts are with you!
AN
Alexander Nagorsen
Other •
Linda and Steve were parents to more than just four. There wasn't a week that didn't go by where we, Mikey's crew of hooligans, weren't hanging out and raiding the fridge. The Howard estate was a second home for all of us. Through Linda, Steve, Lisa, Erin, Sarah and Mikey, I learned the power of generosity, the fun of being goofy, and the strength of a loving family. They allowed me to be myself and I am forever grateful to the Howard family. I love all of you. I mourn with you. I remember with you. -Alexander Nagorsen
AC
Allie, Savannah, and Connor
Other •
Though we didn't get the opportunity to meet Linda, its clear how loved she is and how amazing she was given the wonderful son she raised.
HF
Hernandez Family
Other •
We were so fortunate to have seen Linda one last time this past summer while we were back in Wisconsin. We will deeply miss her hugs and smiles.

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