Howard Sales

Howard C. Sales Jr., affectionately known as Sonny, left us while surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Council Bluffs to Howard C. Sales Sr. and Bonnie (Fichter) Sales on October 9, 1947.

After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School, he joined the United States Navy and was deployed to the Vietnam conflict, where his ship was attacked. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his service.

Following his military service, Howard began his civilian career in 1970, working at Fairmont Foods until 1979. He then began working double part-time jobs at McAlister Oil and UPS. The latter turned into a full-time position, where he would "never meet a stranger." Over the years, he forged many relationships with his daily customers and lifelong friendships of fellow drivers.

After his children were grown, Howard decided to raise litters of Samoyed Huskies. He was so proud of the puppies his Buster and Ivory produced. Shipping his puppies all the way to Florida. Until it became to difficult to part ways with any of them and keeping them all.

Upon retiring, Howard developed a passion for NASCAR and followed races more than ever. He spent much of his time wheeling his fifth-wheel camper from speedway to superspeedway, selling NASCAR merchandise and traveling to his Ozark cabin. This continued until a stroke left him paralyzed and living in a nursing home. Even then, he managed to befriend many of the nursing home staff with his charm and humor.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Sr. and Bonnie Sales; his brother, Terry Sales; his nephew, "Little Terry"; his sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Butch Leonard; and the mother of his three children, Velda Walker.

He is survived by his children, H. Scott (Lisa) of Omaha, Jamie (Brianna) of Council Bluffs, and Todd (Mindi) of Lake of the Ozarks; eleven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his sisters, Shirley Alexander, Tammy (Tom)Madsen and Suzie (Mike) Savick; and numerous aunts, nieces, and nephews.

He will forever be remembered for his hard work and dedication to his grandchildren, traveling to events near and far, and taking his granddaughter shopping.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home on Sunday, December 21, 2025.

Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home on Monday, December 22, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family will direct memorials in Howard's name.