Kenneth J. Howard, 70, Overland Park, died Monday, Feb. 9, 2009 at the KC Hospice House. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. and Memorial Service at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14 at the D.W. Newcomer’s Sons Johnson County Chapel, 11200 Metcalf, Overland Park.

Ken was born Dec. 2, 1938 in Kansas City, Mo., and later moved to Pryor, Okla. He served in the Air Force and on returning, he graduated from Northwestern Oklahoma University with a degree in Chemistry. After graduating, he worked for Monarch Cement Company as Chief Chemist and later as VP of Operations for 10 years. He moved to Overland Park, graduated from the University of Kansas with a Medical Technology degree, and started work at the KU Medical Center. He retired after 15 years as a System Programmer.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother. Survivors include his wife, Rita Howard; children and their spouses, Renee Howard and Kevin Wilkins, Raleigh, N.C.; Wade Howard, Oklahoma City, Okla.; Kurt and Gina Richwine, Olathe; and grandchildren Maria Howard, Oklahoma City, Okla.; Kyle and Luke Richwine, Olathe.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Kansas City Hospice House and Arthritis Foundation.

Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at www.johnsoncountychapel.com.

Arrangements under the direction of D. W. Newcomer’s Sons Johnson County Chapel.