Howard Hesby, Professor of Animal Science at Texas A&M University, passed away unexpectedly on July 23, 2005. Born in Arlington, SD, on October 25, 1943, Howard grew up on the family farm in Volga, SD. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1966 from South Dakota State University where he was on the livestock judging team, played football, and was a member of Farm House. He served in the South Dakota National Guard from 1961-1969.
After marrying his childhood sweetheart, Kay Stubkjaer, in July 1966, Howard earned his Master’s and PhD degrees from Purdue University (Indiana). While at Purdue, Howard’s love of learning became a lifelong love of teaching. He joined the faculty at Texas A&M University in 1971 where his wish to broaden student experience resulted in his developing several courses, including field travel trips throughout the United States. The recipient of many teaching awards, Howard was most honored by the TAMU Former Student Association Award in Teaching and with the American Society of Animal Science national award in teaching. Howard participated in most ag-related activities and enjoyed keeping up with his former students. Howard was committed to doing his best and setting a good example. He loved people, traveling, skiing, Norwegian jokes, and ushering at Aggie football games. A life-long Christian, he was proud of being a founding member of Peace Lutheran Church in College Station, TX. Survivors include Kay, his loving wife of 39 years, his brother Stanley (Marilyn) of Volga, uncle Lars Steinnes of Seattle, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends everywhere. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Pearl (Lewison) Hesby. Funeral services will be held at Peace Lutheran Church in College Station on Wednesday, July 27 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastors Craig Borchardt and Deb Grant presiding. Burial will be at First Lutheran Cemetery near the family farm in Volga. Memorials may be made to the Howard Hesby Memorial Scholarship in care of the Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M University, Peace Lutheran Church of College Station, or South Dakota State University. Howard will best be remembered for his dedication to students, personal ethics, loyalty, and sense of humor. He will be missed.
This memorial appeared in the July 26th issue of the Bryan College Station Eagle.