Howard Victor Friesen Sr., of York, passed away Saturday, February 14, 2026 in Grand Island, NE at the age of 87, leaving behind stories, laughter, and friendships that span a lifetime.
Born September 16, 1938, to Norman “Shorty” and Virginia “Gin” (Burhoop) Friesen, in York and there he stayed. Aside from brief excursions to Europe and California while serving proudly as an Aircraft Mechanic in the United States Air Force, he never strayed far from home. He wore his status as an Air Force Veteran with quiet pride.
Howard was an avid collector — not just of things, though he certainly enjoyed those — but of people. He didn’t know a stranger. If you met him once, you were likely a friend for life. He had an easy grin, a quick story, and the kind of presence that made you feel like you’d known him forever.
Howard was a devoted husband to Marlene (Brahmsteadt) Friesen until her passing in 2010 and a proud father to Howard Jr. (1963–1985), Brenda Kollath (1966–2021), and Anthony. The loss of two of his children was a heartbreak he carried quietly, yet their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.
Family was his greatest joy. He enjoyed spending time with son Anthony and daughter-in-law AJ, and he treasured his role as grandfather to Raziel Friesen and Amethyst (Scotty) Collins, and great-grandfather to Sarah Collins.
In his later years, he found companionship with Charlotte Buchanan, who brought comfort and friendship to his life.
If you knew Howard, you knew his passions. He was a lifelong bowler, a bit of a pool hustler, and a dedicated fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers. And then there was his first love — Chevrolet specifically the ’57 Chevy and the S-10!
Howard preferred to be working. From his Dad’s service station to Miller Seed and Penners, all while being a long term carrier of the Omaha World Herald. Staying busy was his way of life, and he continued to work for as long as his health allowed. He believed in showing up, pitching in, and doing his part.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marlene; his son, Howard Jr.; and his daughter, Brenda. He leaves behind his companion, Charlotte Buchanan; his son Anthony and daughter-in-law AJ; his grandchildren Amethyst and Raziel and great-granddaughter, Sarah; his sister Ginger Williams; his best friends Jerry and Connie Hubbard; many nieces and nephews; and truly, a lifetime of friends.
Howard’s life reminds us that joy doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be found in good company, a well-played game of pool, a Saturday Husker game, or the rumble of a classic Chevy engine. He leaves behind more than memories — he leaves behind stories that will be told for generations.
And if there’s a bowling alley or a pool table in Heaven, you can bet Howard has already made a few new friends.
Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 am Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York. Interment will be in York’s Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1-8:00 pm Friday with his family greeting friends from 6-7:30 that same day all at the mortuary in York. Howard’s friends are encouraged to wear Husker gear for his services.