HAINES CITY - John H. Howard, 78, of Haines City, FL died April 22, 2009 due to respiratory failure. 

Born on April 29, 1930 in Middletown, OH he moved to Haines City in 1994.  He owned and operated a State Farm Insurance Agency for 38 years in Middletown.  He was a member of the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Optimist Club, the Toastmasters Club, the Masonic Lodge, Elks Club and the American Legion in Ohio.  He enjoyed RVing and Square Dancing. John was a US Army veteran where he was a sergeant.

Preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Ann in 2003, he is survived by son, Greg (Mercedes) Howard of Spain; daughter Debra Howard Collins of Lebanon, OH; grandchildren, Cristina, Monica, Alvaro, Adrian, Joey and C.J.

A memorial service will be held Monday, April 27, 2009 at 11 am at First Presbyterian Church of Lake Alfred. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent via www.oakridgefuneralcare.com