Howard L Schrag

Howard Schrag was born in Yankton, South Dakota on July 5, 1941 to his parents, Howard and Leona Schrag who preceded him in death. When he was very young, they moved to a farm in Pretty Prairie, Kansas. Howard grew up in a rural community with parents who taught and modeled good ethics, which he carried throughout his life. Howard graduated from Pretty Prairie High School and went on to the University of Kansas after two years at Bethel College.

He married Judy Ann Woelk in 1964. They had a son, Michael Leon, the following year. Howard was very proud of Michael for his accomplishments and the fine man he became. He also loved his daughter-in-law, Kelly, and his two grandsons, Zachary and Owen.

Howard obtained a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Kansas and then went on to Washington State University, obtaining a doctorate in both Clinical and Comparative Psychology. Howard worked as Director of Child Development in the Idaho Governor’s office and Director of the North Idaho Child Development Center. Throughout his career, he was a researcher and evaluator, including work in an education and human service consulting company for 15 years with Judy. Over the years, Howard and Judy followed careers—from Kansas to Idaho, to Washington State, to Washington DC, back to Washington State—then went back to Kansas to take care of elderly parents and to be with family.

With Judy, Howard lived part-time in Ecuador and Costa Rica for 24 years, enjoying living in both North and Latin American cultures. Howard had many friends all over the US, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. He was an avid bird watcher and photographer. Howard also loved to travel. Together, Howard and Judy reached their 7th and final continent of Antarctica and traveled all over the world. Howard was also a strong steward of the environment having put solar panels on their house and duplex holdings, as well as driving an electric car. Howard died peacefully in his sleep on February 13, 2025, at the age of 83.

A celebration of life will be held on April 27, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Dyck Arboretum in Hesston, Kansas. This will be a time of sharing and fellowship with refreshments and drinks provided.