Dean A. "Howie" Howard, 65, of Defiance, passed away on Sunday evening, September 8, 2019 at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center. He was born on April 16, 1954 to Jimmy and Phyllis (Michel) Riley in South Hadley Falls, Massachusetts. Dean worked at Verhoff Alfalfa Mill in New Bavaria. He enjoyed playing cards, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. Dean leaves behind his mother, Phyllis Riley of Defiance, two brothers, Don Howard of Paulding, and Dale (Jan) Howard of Defiance, sister, Denise (Jeff) Baldwin of Defiance, stepbrother, William (Robin) Riley, two stepsisters, Romla (Bill) Aden and Sandy (Don) Hampshire, all of Defiance, many good friends, and several nieces and nephews who will always miss their Uncle Butch. He was preceded in death by his father, Jimmy Howard, stepfather, Carey Riley, and his grandparents. A Celebration of Dean's life will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 12, 2019 at Eagles #372 in Defiance. Memorials are suggested to CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.