Howard Walter Krenz

Howard Walter Krenz, age 71 of Cambria, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Howard was born in Ripon on July 21, 1953, son of Harold and Esther (Dickman) Krenz. He was a graduate of Markesan High School, class of 1971. Howard was united in marriage to Cynthia Jansma at East Friesland Church on July 24, 1976. As a husband, Howard always thought of his best friend, Cindy, and what she needed. They made a beautiful couple and a warm home that made their families feel welcome. Howard's influence expands through generations of family. Growing up on his family's farm, he helped his parents and learned the value of hard work and dedication and looked out for his brothers and sisters. He spent many years working in transit trucking and construction alongside his brother. Howard dedicated 23 years of his career to Gardner Manufacturing in Horicon, Wisconsin. Retirement did not slow him down; instead, it opened a new chapter in his life. Howard dedicated seven years part-time at Menards, followed by a year at Dalton Lumber.

He enjoyed hunting turkey and deer and in his earlier years fishing and trapping. A true adventurer at heart, Howard found joy in riding the open roads on his Harley Davidson motorcycle. Since his teenage years, those rides offered him a sense of freedom and peace. It also led him to completing a Harley Davidson certification, which allowed him to share his specialized knowledge and expertise in motorcycle repairs and maintenance. Really, he was a kid at heart and spent many hours with his nieces and nephews playing games, teaching them how to load wood on his tractor, or taking them for afternoon rides on his Harley. Howard's kind heart will be missed greatly.

 Howard is survived by his loving wife Cynthia Krenz; two sisters, Sandy (Wayne) Kieck and Irene (Raymond) Phillips; two brothers, Edward (Jenny) Krenz and Robert (Jeanette) Krenz; two sisters-in-law, Joyce Krenz and Lynn Krenz; further survived by cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister Joyce (DuWayne) Krueger and two brothers, Ron Krenz and Scott Krenz.

Per Howard’s wishes, no service will be held. The family would like to thank the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department and all of the local first responders that arrived to help.