Howard Oscar Surdick

Howard O. Surdick, age 67, died unexpectedly at his home in Englewood, Colorado, on September 23, 2024, due to probable cardiac arrhythmia. Howi was born November 1, 1956, in Watertown, Wisconsin, to John “Jack” and Mabel (nee Budewitz) Surdick. Howi was baptized December 2, 1956, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Watertown, Wisconsin. 

He attended Watertown High School, graduated in 1976, and later attended Rasmussen College in Mankato, Minnesota, to obtain a degree in business management. He also became certified as a personal trainer. Howi’s passion for healthy living led him to work in numerous health food stores in Minnesota, California, and Colorado. In his free time, Howi enjoyed playing catch with the football with his family, sharing photos of his daughters and grandchildren, meandering down paths in nature, writing in his journals, watching movies, running and weightlifting, and keeping up with sports stats. Savoring time with animals – both pets and wild – was one of his greatest sources of joy. He will be remembered for his carefully crafted letters, two-hour-long phone calls, how much he embraced autumn along with the smells and tastes of apple and pumpkin pies, his immense love of books and learning, and great laugh. His positive attitude and high-energy approach to life will be greatly missed. 

Howi is survived by his two daughters: Bridget (Marty) Thiel and Tanya (Robert) Stern; nine grandchildren: Mikaela, Rebekah, Malachi, Madison, & Eli Thiel and Luke, Charles, Alex, & Everett Stern; eight siblings: John (Dorothy) Surdick Jr., Susan (Marcos) Avila, Jean (Kevin) Bergdoll, Joan (Don) Sellnow, Thomas (Renee) Surdick, Lauran Carter, Barbara (Mark) Harris, William (Kelly) Surdick; sister-in-law Joyce Surdick; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother James Surdick, and brother-in-law John Carter Jr. 

A memorial gathering will be held in Hartford, Wisconsin.