Howard D. Prell

Howard Dean Prell, 86, of Iron River, Wisconsin, died unexpectedly but peacefully on Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at Essentia Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, MN. He was born in Tomah, WI, on May 18, 1936, the son of Frank and Alice (Krueger) Prell.

Howard graduated from Tomah High School and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He earned his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. While in college, he served with the Reserve Officers Training Corp (ROTC) and continued his service several years thereafter.

Howard was united in marriage to Anna Mae “Ann” Kraska in Richland Center, WI, on July 16, 1960, and they celebrated 62 years of marriage before his passing.

He worked for the School District of Maple from 1960 to 1992, as a Vocational Agriculture Instructor for 8 ½ years and in various administrative positions for 24 years. While working, he belonged to several professional organizations.

Howard was very active in his community and, throughout his life, was involved in the Poplar-Wentworth and Iron River Lions Clubs, from which he received its highest commendation, the Melvin Jones Fellow Award. He was also a charter member of the Knights of Columbus Council No. 12738 (St. Michael).

Howard was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Lake Nebagamon and St. Michael Catholic Church in Iron River. Over the years, he served in various capacities within the church, serving as Lay Minister, Eucharistic Minister, Lector, and member of the Parish Council.

Hunting was a favorite pastime of Howard’s. He only missed one opening day of Wisconsin deer rifle season between 1959 and 2012—and only because he was in the service at the time. He also enjoyed fishing, golf, and trap shooting. He was a life member of the Hawthorne Trap and Wildlife Club and the North American Hunting Club. He enjoyed antiquing and collecting Winchester items.

After retirement, Howard and Ann became “snow-birds,” spending their summers at their lake home in Iron River and their winters in Arizona. Howard enjoyed watching high school, college, and professional football—especially the Packers. Wintering in Arizona brought the opportunity to attend several Professional Golf Association events. He particularly enjoyed attending his children’s and grandchildren’s school activities and dance recitals.

Howard was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Ann, daughter Michelle “Misty” (Mark) Teigen, sons Steven (Lisa) Prell, Rodney (Heather Runes) Prell, grandchildren Scott (Maree Stewart) Teigen, Brianna (Cory) Gebhard, Jordyn (Kaitlyn Rothamer) Prell, Amber (Patrick) Slovonic, great-granddaughter Ayla Gebhard, and nephew John Davis.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Darlene Davis, brother-in-law, Mike Davis, and his parents.

Visitation will begin at 1 PM on Friday, August 19, 2022, at St. Michael Catholic Church (68105 S. George Street, Iron River, WI) and will continue until a 3 PM Mass of Christian Burial with Rev. Fr. Joji Boyapati as celebrant.

Following the service, a reception will be held at the Iron River Community Center (8275 E. Mill Street, Iron River, WI) from 4–6 PM.

Burial will be held in St. Michael Cemetery during a private family service.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to St Michaels Church in Iron River, Iron River Lions Club, Knights of Columbus (12738), School District of Maple or a charity of your choice.

The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5 ^th Street in Superior, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave condolences or sign the guestbook, please visit www.downs-lesage.com .