Dominic Alan Howard of Hudson, Wisconsin passed away at home on Saturday, September 30 of 2023. He was born in Waukon, Iowa on December 8 of 1969. He was raised in Menomonie, Wisconsin but also spent quite a bit of time in Lancing, Iowa visiting his grandmother. Dominic married Billie Jo Thalacker on July 17 of 1993 and they went on to have two children. While he was studying for his undergraduate degree, he worked at the Olympic Flame in Eau Claire,Wisconsin; a job he would talk about fondly for the rest of his life. He then went on to work at the University of Wisconsin – Stout while studying in his masters program. He graduated with a masters in psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Stout. His career path led him to being an IT project manager for several different companies. Dominic had many hobbies that he enjoyed such as cooking/baking/canning, gardening, spending time with his family and his dogs, watching ancient aliens, and practicing Spanish on Duolingo. Dominic will be remembered for being a witty, humorous, intelligent and strong man. No matter what obstacle stood in front of him he never gave up on pursuing his goals. He will also be remembered for his social personality and how much he cared about his friends and neighbors and how he prioritized showing them that he cared in many different ways; whether it was bringing them food or baked goods or just being there to listen. Dominic was also a beloved father and husband who will be greatly missed every day by his family, whom he loved dearly. Dominic is survived by his wife, Billie; his children, Heather and Chandler; His mother, Mary Howard; His Stepdad, Sig Howard; his brothers Justin, Chris (Jen), and Brian; along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews; and many friends. He is preceded in death by his grandmother, Gertrude “Gretchen” Sanchez; his father, Gregory Sprau; grandparents Ernest “Ernie” and Elizabeth “Liz” Howard; grandparents Jacob and Lois Sprau; and mother- and father-in-laws, Patricia and William “Bill” Thalacker; and many more loved ones. In honor of Dominic’s wishes there will not be a service held. Cremation Services provided by Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
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I am sad to see there is not more information here to remember and honor Dominic “Nick” Howard. He worked with my husband at UW-Stout in IT for several years. He also earned his undergraduate degree and a master degree from UW-Stout. He was a loving father. He would bring his young daughter by for trick or treat years ago. He also has a son who is still in high school. Nick’s mother, Mary, is a dear friend of mine as is his brother, Justin. My husband and I were very saddened to hear of Nick’s sudden and untimely passing. Our condolences to his children, mother, brother and extended relatives.
It may be because the funeral home as not received all the information from his family and that is why there is not more information.
Thank you for this heartfelt tribute honoring Dominic “Nick” Howard. Our condolences to the family.
I was surprised and sad to hear about Nick’s death. However, as a Christian, I am thrilled to know he is at peace and pain free!! I can imagine his reunion in Heaven with his biggest supporter, Grandma Gretch and all the other crazy relatives!!! He deserves peace at last!
Nick, I will always remember that sweet smile I saw on that cute toddler face when I babysat with you! RIP Cousin Marian
My comfort in Nick’s passing is that he is now with Grandma Gretch and his uncle Jim for eternity. As his aunt, I got to see Nick when he was his happiest, with his family. He was a loving son, an adored grandson and a nephew to be proud of. But he was first and foremost a wonderful father. My heart goes out to Mary, because I know how strong a mother’s love can be. I know Justin will miss his big brother, but I have found with a loss of a sibling, that cherishing the fond memories becomes much more frequent as time passes. I will keep Heather and Chandler in my prayers, and want them to know that their Dad will forever be watching over them. My sympathy to all of Nick’s family, friends and former coworkers. May he rest in peace.
I’ll always remember you by canned salsa, christmas cookies, either watching the history channel as they broadcast something you could write a dissertation on, or food network with that sparkle in your eyes to go copy it in the kitchen, and always making sure i knew i was home . . . especially with our shared hate of Freud! thank you for blessing me with your presence, and family. while i’m not keen on modern-day religion (as you knew lol), whatever dimension you’re in, i know you’re pain free and walking again as you watch over your lil trio and fur babies! keep peeking in 🙂 go ride that bike, nic <3
Billie, I’m so sorry that your husband passed away. Nic was dearly loved by you, your children, Heather and Chandler, and your families. I pray God will comfort you, your children, and all of your family.
I may have only known Nick a short time, but we shared enough dad jokes and puns to last for years to come. I’ll always think of him when I’m watching anything on the History Channel. My thoughts and prayers are with Nick’s family; I know what it’s like to deal with the death of a parent and it’s difficult to comprehend the level of grief it causes. A special level of love must be given to Billie, I saw how it affected my mother and I would never wish that level of heartbreak on anyone. I’m grateful that Billie, Heather, and Chandler are able to give each other comfort during this loss, and know they have others willing do anything to support them. All of my love to Nick and his family
I met Nick in 2014 and I was proud to call him my friend. I always admired his strength, wit, and charm. Nick was a strong advocate for improvement of various systems throughout the state and his steadfast voice will be sorely missed. The world has a gap without him in it, and my world is a little less bright without my friend. Thank you Nick, I will miss you.
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