Howard T. Kerr Jr., 81, of rural Akron, Indiana, passed, after being ill since March, on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at Lutheran Hospital of Ft. Wayne, Indiana.
Howard was born on August 3, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, to Howard T. and Eleanore A. (Miert) Kerr. At the age of three, his family moved from Chicago to the farm. He graduated from Akron High School in 1961 and married Jolinda Draper on August 1, 1964, at Richland Center United Methodist Church.
A dedicated farmer throughout his life, Howard raised hogs and grain, embodying the hardworking spirit of agriculture. He also worked at Sonoco Products in Akron, for many years. Howard was a man of faith, attending Hope Community Church in Rochester, and a devoted enthusiast of Ford vehicles—both driving and farming with them. He held a deep affection for his dog, Kasey, and was a proud supporter of the Chicago Cubs.
He is survived by his wife Jolinda Kerr of Akron; sons Jeff Kerr and Brian Kerr both of Rochester; grandchildren Kaitlyn and Gabe; and great grandchildren Kobe and Collyn.
Howard was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Diane Camfferman.
The funeral service will take place at 12:00 noon, Monday, April 28, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana with Pastor Wanda Carter and Michael Walters officiating.
The interment will take place following the service in the Athens Cemetery, Athens, Indiana.
Visitation hours will be held from 10 am to 12 pm, Monday, April 28, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, Indiana.
Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to Hope Community Church C/O Frankie Swango: 1202 Bancroft Avenue Rochester, IN 46975.
