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Thomas Howerton Obituary

On February 12, 2013, the world lost a great mentor, educator, teacher, coach, friend, husband, father, and grandfather. Tom Howerton was 79 years old. Tom was a firm believer in the value of education, graduating from Otero Junior College and the University of Colorado, eventually earning his Ed.D. from The University of Northern Colorado. He married Connie Kipper and settled in Colorado Springs, where Tom was a teacher and administrator with School District 11. He retired and then taught at UCCS. He leaves behind legions of students who loved, respected, and recognized him everywhere he went. Tom was also a public servant; receiving numerous distinguished service awards and serving on countless educational boards, including the National Association of School Boards of Education. Tom was elected and served on the Colorado State Board of Education for 16 years. He also ran for Colorado state senate, coming in, as he said, in second place. He was an active member of the Pikes Peak Kiwanis, and was a loyal member of the Berean Sunday School class at the First United Methodist Church. Tom is survived by his wife, Connie, three children; Steve, Karen Kennedy (Jim), and Kent (LaQuitta), and five grandchildren: Sarah Anderson, Nicole Baca, Lindsey Howerton, Cole Kennedy, and Quinn Kennedy. A celebration of Tom's life will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Tuesday, February 19th at 2:00 p.m. Contributions in Tom's memory may be made to The First United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette from Feb. 17 to Feb. 18, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Howerton

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Mark Alexander

February 13, 2023

The most intreging and inspirational teacher, I've had the pleasure of knowing. My memories of Mitchell High School would never be the same without Dr. Howerton's Civics class. A real Hero.

Mona McArdle M.D.

March 6, 2013

Just wanted to in memoriam give thanks to Dr. Tom Howerton and his family that let him give so much to the students at Mitchell High School. Few teachers are able to impact students in the way that he did. He not only taught social studies and Civics from books, he taught it by being a living example. He was able to express a respect for students intellect and through that encourage them to strive for more. His passion for politics was passed on to many students who continue to engage in the political process as a method of social change-that is a true living legacy. Thank you for your inspiration.

Mona J. McArdle M.D.
Mitchell High School Class of 1982

Joyce Woolston

February 21, 2013

School District Eleven has lost another great educator. I met Tom when I started working at Mitchell High School in 1967. I followed his career through the years, always remembering what a kind and helpful person he was. To his family: I'm so sorry for your loss.

Joyce Dearing

February 20, 2013

Thank you Mr Howerton for being such an inspiration to our class at Fort Lupton High School.

Lynn Primo

February 20, 2013

I remember being at your house with my partner Bob Eckles.

February 19, 2013

Doc ~ I reached out not long ago to you ... to say THANK YOU and "look how you touched my life". :)

I want your family to know how much you touched my life. You brought a great sense of humor and an immense heart to school. When your name is mentioned ... EVERYONE ... EVERYONE says how amazing you were and how you were a favorite teacher.

You have left a piece of yourself in all of us. Your faith in us has been passed forward.

reflecting on your life- you may have asked yourself ...
Was I loved?
Did I love?
Did I make a difference?

YES YES YES!

May your family have some comfort knowing that you live on through me and to those I teach.

I am so sorry for your loss.
Lisa

February 18, 2013

Dear Connie, We are heart broken over the loss of your dear, dear husband. We have only known you both for a short time in your life together but we have become so fond of you both. I will especially miss my partner in mischief in pilates class.
WIth love,
Frank and Carol Naylor

Donnie Salum (White)

February 18, 2013

Very very sad to hear of Docs passing. He was such a great person and teacher! I'll never forget the belief, encouragement and direction he gave to me! Not many did.. There is NO doubt he made a huge difference and touched thousands of lives over the years. I Pray God Blesses and comforts all of his loved ones.. RIP Doc, see you on the other side freind. Always Donnie

Doreen Larsh-Acsell

February 18, 2013

Dear Connie, Steve, Karen and Kent- I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Tom. The many years we spent as neighbors on Adams cir will always remain in my fondest memories because of your wonderful family. My heartfelt sympathies to all of you and yours during this difficult time..

Lee and Suzanne Vaughn

February 18, 2013

We will very much miss Tom, he was certainly one of our favorite people. Our prayers and blessings to all his family and loved ones.

February 18, 2013

So sorry to hear of your loss. My sweet Husband Andy Mackeen had much respect for Dr. Howerton and much love for his good friend Steve. In his Honor I send your family our heartfelt condolances, Sincerely Kelly MacKeen.

February 18, 2013

I am deeply sadened by the loss of Tom. He was a wonderful Christan , truely a good friend and a great guy to be with on the golf course. He leaves me with numerous memories that we shared and he made life a lot more fun for me.
Dick Vogel

Susan Mulhern

February 17, 2013

Mr Howerton was my AP History teacher in my Jr and Sr years at Mitchell. He was the best teacher I had through all my years of education. Thanks to him for challenging me, and my sincere sympathy to his family.
Mitchell class of 1967

Carol Townsley

February 17, 2013

We enjoyed Tom's company in both Colorado Springs and Palm Springs CA Our prayers are with Connie and family.

Mary Nathan

February 17, 2013

We enjoyed Tom as a wonderful friend. God be with Connie and family.

Franka Hopwood

February 17, 2013

Dr. Howerton was an amazing teacher and a man of utmost integrity and service to others. I'm thankful for his life and the seeds he planted in so many of his students.
Franka Williams Hopwood
Mitchell class of '73

Rod Schofield

February 17, 2013

Tom was an exceptional colleague and I feel blessed to have known him. Blessings to his family as you grieve his passing.

February 17, 2013

Tom, my friend from Mitchell High School days! So sorry to learn you took another trail and left us behind. Our regrets and love to your wonderful family and I'll see you down the road! Jack Frost

Debbie and Mitchell Fosdick

February 17, 2013

Uncle Tommy, our hearts hurt that you are gone, but you will never be forgotten. Mitchell and I appreciate your advice and everything you have done for us. Thank You.

February 17, 2013

Dr. Howerton was an unforgettable teacher, wise mentor and good friend. I will never forget him. Diana Lynn

Chris Higman

February 17, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Howerton Family. The world lost a wonderful person.

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