Howard William Stiffler, born September 1, 1941, in Marion Center, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of family and friends whose lives he enriched with his kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering presence.
For more than six decades, Howard called Indiana, Pennsylvania home. He was first married to Gloria Stiffler, with whom he welcomed his only daughter, Anne Angel Stiffler. He later shared many happy years with his beloved wife, Mildred “Millie” Stiffler, who preceded him in death.
He is survived by his daughter, Anne Angel Stiffler; his granddaughter, Olivia Glori Gardner; Hannah and Marley Gardner; granddaughters and Millie’s family, whom he embraced as his own: Butch Adams and his wife, Janet, and their son, Robert; Joe Adams and his wife, Peggy, and their daughter, Amanda; Earl Adams; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
Howard was one of ten children. His siblings are Mike, Frank, George and John Sinick, Julia Fink, Mary Gresko, Rose Uber and ralph and Lawrence Stiffler.
Howard retired from PennDOT after a career he genuinely loved. As a materials inspector, he took great pride in helping ensure Pennsylvania’s roads were built to the highest standards. If you’ve traveled safely on one of the state’s well-constructed highways, there’s a good chance Howard played a small part in making that journey possible. He believed that every job worth doing was worth doing well, and he carried that principle with him throughout his life.
A devoted member of the Homer City Christian & Missionary Alliance and an active member of the Indiana Lions Club, Howard found purpose in serving both his faith and his community. He enjoyed traveling, watching auto racing, and spending time with the people he loved most. He was also a devoted fan of Jeopardy! and somehow seemed to know the answers before the contestants. Anyone who watched alongside him quickly learned not to second-guess him.
More than anything, Howard will be remembered for the way he treated people. He was the person others turned to for thoughtful advice, a steady voice in difficult moments, or simply a listening ear. He made people feel seen, valued, and understood. He never sought attention or recognition because his quiet compassion spoke more loudly than words ever could.
One of Howard’s greatest blessings was helping raise his granddaughter, Olivia. While Anne worked, he lovingly cared for Olivia, offering endless patience, gentle guidance, and unconditional love. He treasured every moment they shared and would do anything for either his daughter or his granddaughter. His devotion to his family reflected the kind of man he was: dependable, selfless, and always ready to help the people he loved.
Howard believed in treating people with respect, offering a helping hand whenever he could, and leaving the world a little better than he found it. Those who knew him know that his greatest legacy wasn’t what he accomplished, but how he made others feel.
In Howard’s memory, the family asks that instead of simply remembering him, you honor him by performing one unexpected act of kindness. Hold the door for someone, check in on a neighbor, buy a stranger a cup of coffee, or offer words of encouragement to someone who needs them. Be patient with someone who needs a little grace. Be the voice of reason for someone who needs to be heard. Those simple acts would have meant more to Howard than flowers ever could.
The world could use a little more kindness, and there is no better way to honor Howard than to leave it just a little better than you found it.
A memorial service will be planned at a later date. Cremation arrangements are with Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory where online condolences may be made by visiting rbfh.net.
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