Eugene W. Howe, 78, 199 Walnut St., New Knoxville, died at 1:55 a.m. Aug. 28, 2006, at Wapakoneta Manor.

He was born May 18, 1928, in Auglaize County, to Fred and Ida Katterheinrich Howe. On May 25, 1947, he married Irene Hulsmeyer, who survives.

Also surviving are four sons, John (Kathy), Woodridge, Ill., Richard (Michaele) and Mark (Barbara), all of New Knoxville, and Keith (Mary), Gahanna; half sister, Eunice (Herman) Freckman, Cincinnati; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Deceased are two brothers, Roger and Emerson; a halfbrother, Norman Katterheinrich; and two halfsisters, Clara Meckstroth and Rachel Henschen.

He retired from Airport Manufacturing Co., where he was a tool and die maker. He farmed, did carpentry and was a milk hauler for 12 years. He served on the New Knoxville Village Council for 12 years. He graduated in 1946 from New Knoxville High School, where he earned his state farmer's degree from FFA. He was a member of United Methodist Church, New Knoxville, where he sang in the choir.

Services are 11 a.m. Thursday at the church, the Rev. Brian Vinson officiating. Burial will follow at Pilger Ruhe Cemetery.

Calling is 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the church.

Contributions can be made to the church, New Knoxville Historical Society or St. Rita's Hospice.