April 22, 2025

Linn County News

Published April 23, 2025

Dr. Howard F. Wilson, age 87, of Garnett, Kan., passed away on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at St. Luke’s South Hospital in Overland Park, Kan.

Howard Frank Wilson was born on Feb. 5, 1938, in Garden City, Mo. He was the third of three children born to George Lloyd and Elsie Mildred (Miller) Wilson. His formative years were spent on a farm near Parker, Kan., where he excelled in football, basketball and track during his time at Parker schools. Following his 1956 graduation, Howard continued his athletic pursuits in football at Independence Community College. He then pursued higher education at Ottawa University before achieving his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Cleveland Chiropractic in 1966.

He was united in marriage to Doris Ann Rhodes on July 21, 1957, in Osawatomie, Kan. This union was blessed with five children.

In 1966 Howard and Doris moved their family to Garnett, where he started his chiropractic practice. Over the 42 years of treating his patients in Garnett, Howard developed countless friendships and provided care for multiple generations.

Beyond his professional life, Howard found joy in the outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting, with family pheasant hunts holding a special place in his heart. A gifted woodworker, he poured his creativity and care into each project, crafting unique pieces for his loved ones-tangible legacies for generations to come. Ever adaptable, Howard embraced technology to stay connected with his family through Facebook, email and Facetime.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jami Prather in 2023; brother, Lloyd Wilson; and sister, Kathryn Burnett.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Doris Wilson, of the home; children, Kathy Shinkle and husband, Terry, Karen Ferguson and husband, Jerry, Jeff and wife, Kelli, Lynn and wife, Jenny; 22 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Randy Prather; and sister-in-law, Rosemary Wilson.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the First Christian Church in Garnett, Kan. Burial will follow in the Garnett Cemetery. Howard’s family will greet friends from 6 – 8 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the First Christian Church in Garnett. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ.org) and may be left in care of Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.