Howard Arthur Elson

September 20, 1936 — March 09, 2025

Service Details

Howard Arthur Elson, 88, of Clive, Iowa passed away Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Howard was born in rural Bondurant, Iowa on September 20, 1936 to Lloyd E. and Margaret R. Elson. He graduated from Iowa State College in 1958. One of his proudest moments, while attending, was his membership on the Iowa State College Livestock Judging Team where they achieved 1st or 2nd place awards in all their contests. Howard was also a proud member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity.

After fulfilling his Armed Forces obligation, Howard returned to the family farm. He was active in his community, serving as President of the School Board, as member of Lions Club, and as a member at Bondurant Christian Church. Howard was later appointed by the United States Secretary of Agriculture, Earl Butz, to serve on the Advisory Committee on Grains. He was also a Director on the U.S. Feed Grains Council, and served as Secretary of the Board of Directors of Agriculture Industries.

In post-retirement, Howard worked as a Realtor with First Realty Better Homes and Gardens at the Cobblestone Office in Clive, Iowa. He specialized in farm real estate for 10 years.

Howard is survived by his wife of 43 years, Susanne of Clive, IA; brother, Charles Elson of Madison, WI; sister, Dorothy (Bob) White of Moline, IL; sons, Mike (Wachira) Elson of Ruskin, FL and Bill (Dawn) Elson of Norwalk, IA; daughter, Jennifer (Jeff) Perry of Ruskin, FL; step-daughters, Glenda (Clark) Lathrum of Gilbert, AZ and Paula (Tracy) Wood of Johnston, IA; 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Margaret Elson.

Per Howards request, his body was donated to the University of Iowa for Medical Research and memorial services will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bondurant Christian Church or Suncrest Hospice of Iowa in loving memory of Howard.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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