Howard Cloyd States Jr.

Howard Cloyd States Jr. of Topeka, KS passed away October 24, 2016 at the age of 61 from cancer. He was born to Mr. and Mrs. Howard Cloyd States Sr. (Aline) on August 16, 1955 at Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, Louisiana.

Howard graduated from Topeka West High School in 1973. He worked for Gary Gilbert at Midas Muffler for 25 years. They remained life-long friends.

Howard and Juanita (Windett) met on the dance floor in 1973. Howard told a story about his buddy trying to work up the courage to ask Juanita for a dance. Howard stated "No you ain't. That's the girl I'm going to marry."They married March 1, 1974!

Howard is survived by his wife, Juanita, sons, Chad (Wendi) and Travis (Sylvia) and grandchildren Treven, Brauner, Caenan and Lane. Other family survivors include Howard's father, Howard Sr. (Josie), brother, David (Llena) and nephews, Dillon and Daniel.

Some of Howard's favorite things were Stetson hats, cowboy boots and family. Howard especially loved participating in Boys Scouts with his sons. Chad and Travis achieved Eagle Scout status. Howard served as their Scout Master and was by their sides the entire time. Camping and canoeing were a special way the States men spent time together. In addition, Howard always enjoyed animals, especially dogs. Photography was a hobby that held his interest for years. He was a gadget man and loved any new camera, tablet, video recorder, computer or electronic. Later in life, he became a Lego builder. Not your typical builder but, a MASTER Lego builder (think magnifying glass, super glue and precise organization of parts and pieces). His trusty side-kick, Brauner Lee, encouraged this hobby.

Howard was greatly loved and will be missed dearly.

A celebratory gathering of Howard's life will be held Saturday, October 29th from 5pm-9pm at Gary Gilbert's Woodlawn Farm, 4341 SE US Highway 40, Tecumseh, KS 66542. Please help us celebrate Howard's life. Join us for food, family, friends & memories. Dinner will be provided. You are welcome to bring pictures, stories and a lawn chair.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Helping Hands Humane Shelter of Topeka or Midland Care (Hospice).