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

Linda Sue Howard

August 09, 1954 - November 19, 2025

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