Donald R. Howland

Donald Richard Howland, age 76, passed away on December 29, 2024, as a result of military service connected illness.

Born on January 5, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Donald was the youngest of five siblings; sister, Mildred Howland Cox, Walter Jr., James, Robert and Raymond Sr.; and the son of the late Walter William Howland, Sr. and Sarah Gertrude Keegan, of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Donald is survived by his loving brother, Raymond Howland, Sr. (Patricia Smith Howland); nephew, Raymond Jr.; nieces, Kelly Howland, Patricia Howland Dick, Dianna Lamanna and Deniece Chin (Walter).

Donald attended Central High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. At age 18, Donald enlisted in the U.S. Army. Following basic training at Ft. Benning, GA, he received orders to Vietnam. Assigned to 4th Battalion, 54th Infantry, the Big Red One. His arrival was during the Tet Offensive, a major escalation and regarded as one of the largest military campaigns of the Vietnam War. At age 19, he was promoted to Command Track Driver, EOD and Lead in M113 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC), used to attack Viet Cong enemy positions and strongholds, thus protecting and saving the lives of hundreds of U.S. comrades. Prior to being discharged, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal (pinned by General C.W. Abrams, Commander). Distinguished awards included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon, Combat Infantry Badge (CINF), Sharpshooter Rifle Badge and other awards.

After his honorable discharge as SP4, Donald devoted his career to media press operations. He achieved the level of Expert Master Printer and Head Pressman for multiple Cincinnati companies. He was awarded numerous certifications from the Master Printers of America Association.

Donald had a gentle and kind spirit throughout his lifetime. He was a Certified Master Auto Mechanic and he loved cats, namely his calico "Honey Brown". In his brief years, Donald impacted many lives with his trusting personality.

He maintained a remarkable memory of his youth, military life and success stories. He deeply loved his family and was consistently grateful to the Lord Jesus Christ. Donald will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to everyone who shared their love and time to Donald and to the Dayton VA hospital staff, the VA Community Living Center (CLC) Lincoln Estates staff and to VA Victory Ridge (Hospice) for the outstanding care, compassion and respect each gave to Donald during the years he was with us.

Donald will be buried with military honors at the Dayton National Cemetery (4400 W Third St, Dayton) on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 2:00pm. 

Donations in Donald's memory may be made to a Veteran Service Organization of your choice.