Stephen “Howdy” Lloyd Howdeshell, age 44, of Mendota, Illinois passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. He was born on November 22, 1981, to Karen Babcock and the late Lloyd Howdeshell.

Stephen was a proud father, a loving son, an awesome brother, a cool uncle, and a best friend to many. Stephen was a force of nature, known for his incredible strength, burly appearance, sleeves of ink, and rugged beard. You could find him ripping down the road on two wheels, cheering on the Chicago Cubs or Bears, fishing hidden spots near and far, traveling to amazing places, listening to music, or just hanging out with his loved ones.

A man of great curiosity and grit, Stephen was defined by his fearless, hands-on approach to life. He believed in the dignity of hard work and possessed an insatiable desire to learn. His professional journey reflected his passions. It began with installing audio and security systems, marrying his love for music and speed. He then shifted to O’Reilly Auto Parts, where his deep dive into automotive components made him an exceptional customer service professional. Stephen’s true vocation was found with the Operating Engineers Local 150. He cherished the brotherhood, the adrenaline of operating massive equipment, and the endless opportunities to master new machines in new places: a career he proudly intended to finish his working life with. Above all, Stephen was a loyal friend, forming unbreakable bonds with colleagues who became family at every stop along his path.

While Stephen worked and played hard, he also loved with his whole heart. His devotion to family and friends was absolute, and he would move mountains for those in his circle. Anyone who spoke with him could feel the profound pride and excitement in his voice when he shared his dreams, his work, and above all, stories of his loved ones. His softer side was revealed in the way his face would light up in conversation, at the arrival of a niece or nephew, while planning a new adventure, or simply when his daughter was near. He will be deeply missed for his playful rituals: the “up tops”, the feigned poker face, the request for “knucks”, and his tender, soulful hugs. His mischievous grin and quick wit sparked endless laughter, while his passion for animals, his skillful cooking, and his love of a good book made it effortless for everyone to adore him.

Remember him in the moments he cherished most: as the Cubs hoist the “W” flag, with the thrilling pull of a hooked fish, with the sting of new ink, and when you feel the wind in your hair on the open road, music absolutely blaring.

Stephen is survived by his mother, Karen Babcock; his daughter, Justice Rodriguez; his brother, Jack (Asia) Howdeshell; his two sisters Candice Babcock, and Jamie (Michael) Saylor; his goddaughter Laney Saylor; many nieces and nephews, including several great nieces and nephews; and many great friends whom he considered family.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Henry and Evelyn Kokke, his paternal grandparents, Eldon and Margaret Davis, and his father, Lloyd Howdeshell.

Services will be held on January 17, 2026 at 10 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Mendota, Il. Cremation rites have been reserved with Horner-Merritt Funeral Home. Donations can be made to Illinois Valley Animal Rescue in Stephen's name in lieu of flowers.