Connie Sue (Mccoige) Howard

Connie Sue Howard, age 87, passed away at her home in Elkhart with her family by her side on Thursday, December 28, 2023. Connie was born April 15, 1936, to the late Lewis and Maxine (Holcomb) McCoige in Argos, Indiana. In 1954, Connie graduated from Jimtown High School. In 1975, she married Elmer H. Howard in Granger, Indiana.  Elmer preceded her in death in 1994.

Surviving are her children Debra (Terry) Karre of Elkhart, and Mark (Glenda) VanDusen of Cassopolis, Michigan.  Surviving as well are her grandchildren Tracie (Brian) Voorde, Jamie (Adam) Gilmore, Jessica Charles, Mark (Heather) VanDusen II, and Brandon (Samantha) VanDusen, along with 8 great grandchildren.  Surviving as well is her sister Sally Davis of Elkhart.  Her son, James C. VanDusen Jr. preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 pm Thursday, January 4, 2024, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.  There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Friday, January 5, 2024, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola with interment to follow in Olive Cemetery West. The services will be led by Rev. Bette M. Thompson, of Jamestown United Methodist Church in Elkhart, Indiana.

Connie was employed by Adams Westlake and the Bendix Corporation and later for the US Postal Service as a rural letter carrier. For 18 years, she served her community with commitment and a smile, becoming a familiar and friendly face to many.

Her passion for card games, particularly euchre, was legendary. She spent countless hours around the card table, sharing stories, laughter, and friendly competition with her loved ones and friends. Connie was also incredibly talented and enjoyed sewing, crafting and making quilts and personalized gifts for her family and friends that were pieces of her heart that she shared with those she loved.

An adventurous spirit, Connie was always ready for a new adventure, whether it be the thrill of white-water rafting, the peacefulness of a hot air balloon ride, or the excitement of a road trip to unknown destinations. Her affinity for the casino, her joy in hosting gatherings at her pool, and her talent for entertaining speak volumes of her love for life and the happiness she found in the company of others. Connie's home was a place of warmth and joy, a place where family and friends were always welcomed with open arms.

Above all, Connie's faith in the Lord was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a longtime member of the Jamestown United Methodist Church. Her commitment to her faith was a source of strength and inspiration, both for her and those around her. In addition to her love for Christ, she cherished her family, holding a special place in her heart for her beloved grandchildren and nephews.

Connie’s family would like to extend a very special note of thanks to the numerous caregivers who helped Connie at her home, and the staff of Riverview Adult Daycare Center and Heartland Hospice, along with her neighbor and “personal Uber driver,” Pete who lovingly took his time to make sure Connie was able to get wherever she needed to go.

In her memory, donations may be made to either Riverview Adult Daycare or Heartland Hospice.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of Connie’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.