John E. Howes 81 passed away peacefully on Dec. 28, 2025. A private service will be held in early March of this year under the direction of Hustad Funeral Home.

Born in Burns, on March 3, 1944, John was the youngest of five children of Wayne and Hope Moyer Howes. They lived and worked on their ranch just outside of Burns. John went to school in Burns, graduating in 1962. After graduation he married Norma Schlegal, they had one son, DeWayne. They later divorced.

John served in the US Army during the Vietnam war. After his military service he moved to the Portland area, making that his home.

A passionate musician, John was the lead singer of The Weirdsmen, performing Blues and classic rock from the 1950s and 1960s.

He landed a job working in the automobile industry in sales for Victoria Motors, this kicked off his successful 50-plus year career.

John was preceded in death by his parents; son, DeWayne; brothers, Robert Howes and Don Howes; and niece, Denise Totland. He is survived by sisters, Dorothea Purdy and Helen Kennedy; nephews, Tim Purdy, Jeff Howes, Mike Howes and Joe Walker; and nieces, Ronda Purdy, Mylisa Holland, Michelle Van Beek, Kelly Williams, and Victoria Rhoads.

John’s easy smile and fun nature will be missed; we will fondly remember John suddenly breaking out into song during many of our conversations usually ending with a chuckle. In lieu of flowers, donations   may be made to a charity of your choice.