Howard (H.W.) Hardesty
October 8, 1935 - July 7, 2023

On July 7, 2023, 87 year old Howard Wayne Hardesty of Eolia, MO. took his final breath at the Elsberry Health Care Center surrounded by his daughters.

Howard donated his body to Washington University.

Howard was born on October 8, 1935, to Murray and Frances Hardesty (nee Jarboe) in Louisiana, MO. Howard graduated from Wellsville, Missouri High School in 1953. He married Joyce Rosetta Gotsch on May 2, 1954.
Howard enjoyed time with his family, especially attending his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren's sporting events, playing poker and cards at the casino, shooting pool and telling stories.

He is survived by his daughters, Shelly Myers (Larry) of Protem, MO, Marian Kuntz (Eddie) of Eolia, MO, brother, Murray Lee Hardesty (Sue) of Booneville, MO; sister, Donna Kombrink of St. Peters, MO.; six grandchildren, Aaron Kuntz (Christy), Eolia, MO; Jamie Gollaher (Grant), Frankford, MO; Tabitha Myers, Owensville, MO; Tracy Niccum (Jason), Washington, MO; Candace Kluba (Luke), Washington, MO; and Nicole Brack (Adam), Olathe, KS. Eight great-grandchildren, Scott Kuntz, Kaitlyn Kuntz, Tyler Kuntz, Rileigh Kuntz, Allison Niccum, Addison Niccum, Liam Kluba, and Carly Gollaher. Special friend Mary Hardin, Eolia, MO as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Howard was preceded in death by his son, Scott Hardesty, former wife, Joyce Hardesty, his parents Murray and Frances Hardesty, one great granddaughter, Lee Kluba, and brother-in-law, Leroy Kombrink.

Howard was a union truck driver for 29 1/2 years finally retiring from Yellow Freight Trucking in 2000. He also enjoyed farming part-time for several years, 1966-1977. After retiring he traveled in his motor home for several years visiting relatives, friends and many US sites, spending several winters in Florida. Howard never knew a stranger, finding someone to strike up a conversation with wherever he went. He will be deeply missed by his loved ones and many friends.

There will be a Celebration of Life Saturday, August 19th at 2:00 pm at the Eolia Community Building. A meal will be served.

Memorials may be sent to the Middletown Cemetery Association, 116 Hwy BB, Middletown, MO 63359 or to the Clopton Alumni Association, 24855 Pike 243, Clarksville, MO 63336.