John Eliot Howard

John Eliott Howard, 73, passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

John was born on July 16, 1952, at North Island Naval Air Station in Coronado, California, to Hugh Wyman Howard and Helen Van Hook Howard. He attended Westwood Senior High School and continued his education at the University of Miami before earning his degree in Botany from the University of New Hampshire in 1974.

Throughout his life, John built a career rooted in hard work, skill, and a love of the outdoors. He worked as a Ground Foreman at the Wentworth Hotel, spent 15 years as an arborist with Northeast Shade Tree, and dedicated 31 years as a Marina Electrical Technician at Great Bay Marine. He also held a United States Coast Guard Captain's License, reflecting his lifelong passion for the sea.

As a child, John loved slot car racing, a hobby that reflected the curiosity and enthusiasm he carried throughout his life. He found great joy in climbing and hiking to fire towers, exploring the woods, sailing, and gazing at the stars. Whether on a mountain trail, out on the water, or around a campfire, John felt most at home in nature.

In February 1984, John met the love of his life, Nancy. Their relationship blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they were married on September 11, 1992. Over the past 42 years, John and Nancy shared countless adventures, including long road trips, days at sea, and cherished moments with family and friends. Together they built a life filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

John was especially devoted to his family and took immense pride in being a husband, father, Steppe, and Great-Steppe. He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Howard; his daughter, Elanna Thomas and her husband, Jeff Thomas; and his treasured grandsons, Noah and Niko Thomas.His son, Daniel Kardulas and his wife Aimee Kardulas; his beautiful grand daughter Mychaela Kardulas and cherished grandson Cody Lemoi and his wife, Taylor Lamoi; and his precious great-granddaughters Lyleigh and Adaleigh.

John is further survived by his brothers, Evans Howard and his wife, Judi, and Wyman Howard and his wife, Susy; along with many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Hugh Wyman Howard and Helen Van Hook Howard; his brother, Curtis Howard; and his sister, Prudence Howard.

To know John was to know that every moment, every place, and every experience came with a story. He had a remarkable gift for remembering details and sharing them in a way that brought people together. Whether recounting an adventure, explaining a project, or simply reminiscing about the past, John could always tell the story.

His love of nature, sailing, family, and friendship will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, loyal friend, and the man who could tell the story.

SERVICES: In accordance with John's wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Portsmouth Elks Lodge, 500 Jones Ave, in Portsmouth, NH on Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 4-7pm. Family and Friends are encouraged to gather in remembrance of John's life, his love of adventure, and the many stories he shared with those fortunate enough to know him.