In Memoriam - Howard Lathrop

Howard Dale Lathrop

Born: February 20, 1932, Wayne Co., IL

Died: July 20, 2026, Pontoon Beach, Madison Co., IL

Married: September 23, 1951, Doris Coil, Wayne County, IL

Children:

Cindy md. Gary Borgens 1977, 2) Steve Ferguson

• Pamela
• Matthew

Patricia b. 1954, d. 2022 md. 1975 Al Stevens b. 1953, d. 2016

• Christopher
• Adam

David md. Stephanie Roth, 1977

• Ryan
• Elizabeth
• Andrew

Catherine md. Charlie Williams, 1996; md. Paul Malawy

Ahnentafel:

1. Howard Dale Lathrop

2. Roscoe Lathrop 1900-1963

3. Viola Brown 1906-1997

4. Joel Lathrop 

5. Louisa Dove 

6. Charles Brown

7. Bessie Dunn 

Howard Dale Lathrop, 94, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and quiet acts of kindness. He was born on February 20, 1932, in Wayne City, Illinois, to the late Roscoe Lathrop and Sarah [Viola] Brown Lathrop.  On September 23, 1951, Howard married the love of his life, Doris Coil, in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Together they built a loving home and shared many wonderful years until her passing.  

Howard dedicated more than 30 years of service as a bus driver for Bi-State, whree he was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and friendly demeanor before retiring. 

He found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether he was fishing on a quiet morning, hunting in the outdoors, tending to his graden, working on cars, or building and tinkering with just about anythying.  Howard was happiest with his hands busy and a project to complete.  He possesse a natural ability to fix things and was always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends and neighbors.  His practical widom, patience and gentle spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

Howard was a faithful member of Nameoki United Methodist Church, where his faith and values helped guide him throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving children, Cindy (Steve) Ferguson, David (Stephanie) Lathrop, and Cathy  (Paul) Malawy; 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law Thelma (Coil) Lathrop; his brother-in-law Johnnie Coil; along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

In additiono to his beloved wife, Doris, Howard was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter Patricia Stevens; his son-in-law Al Stevens; and his brothers Glen Lathrop and Mervin Lathrop. 

Howard will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his willingness to help others, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness and quiet strength. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.  A visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road, Granite City, Illinois.  Funeral services will begin at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Lakeview Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, Illinois. 

Howard & Doris

Mervin, Viola, Howard & Glen

Revised 7/27/2026