Matthew Howell 1971-2026
Matthew Wayne Howell, 54, of Horton, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, March 16, 2026, surrounded by family.
Matt was born Nov. 3, 1971, to Doyle W. and Julia A. Howell in Lexington, Neb. He spent his life living in various parts of Nebraska and Kansas, settling in Horton to be close to his parents.
At a young age Matt either wanted to be a cowboy, a police officer, or an auto mechanic; he finally decided to become a mechanic. After graduation from Onaga in 1991, Matt attended Manhattan Technical College earning a degree in automotive mechanics.
He had worked various jobs as a mechanic, including for John Deere, before working for Tom Jones at Horton T Tire. When Tom retired, Matt bought the business and ran it for 20 years before cancer took the ability for him to continue on.
Matt was active with the Boy Scouts as a troop leader from many years and enjoyed going fishing and camping in his spare time.
On February 23, 2022, Matt married Corrie Ashton and they made their home in Horton. She brought two children into the marriage, which he accepted as his own. His family has always been a priority, including hunting trips in Texas, family reunions, traveling to visit with his family and enjoying teaching Finn to drive. After spending time with someone, Matt always made sure everyone knew where they stood with him.
Matt was preceded in death by his parents, Doyle and Julia Howell, and three children who were born in Heaven.
Survivors include his wife, Corrie, and children Finn and Faith Ashton, all of the home; a brother, Michael Howell (Holta), Monroe, Wash.; a sister, Mary Congdon (Mark), Milan, Tenn.; his mother-in-law, Helen Ashton, Horton; and sisters-in-law, Mindy Rush (Mike) and Becky Barton (Ron), both of Horton. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
A celebration of life service is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 23 at Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, where the family will greet friends from 9:30 a.m. until service time. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Prairie Grove Cemetery in Lincoln.
(PAID OBITUARY)
