Howard Franklin Hidde, age 89, of New London, went to his heavenly home on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. He was born on January 18, 1936, son of the late William and Leona (Miller) Hidde. Howard was born again into God's kingdom through baptism at his home in Marion on January 31, 1936. He was confirmed at St. John's in Marion on April 10, 1949, and chose John 5:24 as his confirmation verse.

On October 7, 1967, Howard was united in marriage to his first wife, Barbara Jean Plate. Together, they had two children: Douglas Alan and Lisa Ann. Barb preceded Howard in death on April 4, 1979. On November 24, 1984, Howard married Margo (Steffen). They were blessed with 41 years together and had two children: Scott Robert and Amber Joy.

Howard farmed with his dad until 1967 when he was employed for Dave Nero as a Heavy Equipment Dragline Operator. Four years later in 1971, he purchased the Bill Bruss Farm and farmed till 1998 when he retired and moved to New London. Retirement wasn't in Howard's vocabulary because two weeks later he was working again full-time for New London Park and Recreation Department and worked there for 14.5 years. After a year of retirement, Howard found himself back in the workforce mowing lawn for the New London Schools as well as St. Joe's.

Howard was active in church all of his life, from ushering at St. John's in Marion to holding different offices on the church council at St. Paul's in Clintonville. In 1990, he became a member at Emanuel Lutheran Church and was there ever since. The love of his life was his faith. He loved calling on other Christians and sharing God's Word. He would get up 1-2 hours early every day so he could read his Bible.

Howard is survived by his wife, Margo; his 4 children; Douglas (special friend Stacey) Hidde, Lisa (Craig) Hoffman, Scott (Lisa) Hidde, Amber (Dan) Ramos; 8 grandchildren: Nathan (Eryn) Hidde, Steven (Stephanie) Hidde, Jordan Hidde, Alex Hidde, Trinity Ramos, Reid Ramos, Ellie Hidde, Easton Hidde; 7 great-grandchildren: Levi Hidde, Raelynn Hidde, Mack Hidde, Camdyn Hidde, Nora Hidde, Maggie Hidde, Olivia Hidde; sisters-in-law: Maryetta Hidde, Vineta Hidde, Charmaine Larsen; brother-in-law: Howard (Pat) Steffen. Howard is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Barb; brothers, Harold (Bonnie) Hidde, Orval Hidde, Don Hidde; sister: Lois (Dan) Stenson; brothers-in-law: Eugene (Lorraine) Plate, Pearl Plate, Doris Plate, Arlyn Plate, Robert (Sue) Steffen, Bruce (Ruth) Steffen, John Larsen.

The Christian Funeral for Howard will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Emanuel Lutheran Church at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. William Heiges officiating. A visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 - 10:45 a.m. Burial will be in Emanuel Lutheran Cemetery, town of Lebanon.

Memorials may be directed to Emanuel Lutheran Church.

A special thank you to Ascension Home Care and the staff and nurses of St. Elizabeth Hospital for their special care and concern of Howard.