Howard Tomashek

We are sad to announce the passing of Howard Tomashek, 89. Howard passed quietly in his sleep in early November.

One of three children born to Grace and William Tomashek, he graduated from high school in 1952 and from college in 1956; he then served in the US Army Reserve for six years. On May 16, 1959, Howard married the love of his life, Patte; together they made a family, and he became a loving husband, father, and grandpa.

Howard was a devoted Catholic, attending daily mass and worshiping additionally through weekly prayer meetings. Howard was active in Indian Guides and Princesses, a YMCA child development program for youth and fathers; the Tomashek children took names of running birds, with Running Grouse (Howard) at the head of their tribe.

Howard was a huge fan of ice cream. He enjoyed hunting and studying history, and he was passionate about fishing, gardening, and making art. These passions live on in his children and grandchildren; he encouraged their talents and interests and inspired them to express their own creativity. He instilled important life skills in his kids and was proud of their accomplishments.

Like an allegory for his life, the fruits of the garden he and Patte tended were shared generously and in abundance - nourishing family, friends, strangers, and by extension, the world at large. Howard worked for forty years at the business his father started; there he designed, built, and repaired farm and industrial machinery; he also headed the company for several years.

Howard became an accomplished artist in his spare time. Beginning in the 1960s, and extending well into retirement, he created in multiple mediums including wood, paint, and steel. He was best known for his sculptures, fashioned out of stainless steel, for which he received many awards and commissions. In his golden years, he and Patte enjoyed showing his beautiful artworks at art fairs throughout the Midwest and Florida, touching the hearts of fair goers with his unique artistry. In addition to private collections, many of his artworks adorn public spaces, a testament to his talent and vision.

Howard is survived by his wife Patte, children: Charles, Mark (Nancy), Ann, (Kelly), Kay (Scott), Sue (Pierre), and Steve (Randi), thirteen grandchildren, and his sister Ruth. He was preceded in death by his son Paul, his grandson Wyatt, his brother William, and his parents.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona.  The Very Reverend Mark C. McNea will officiate. 

There will not be any visitation held prior to the Mass; the family will greet relatives and friends during a reception following the Mass in Holy Family Hall of the Cathedral.

Howard will be buried at St. Mary's Cemetery, Winona, MN.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Howard’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.