Louis "Lou" Howdeshell

Louis “Lou” Howdeshell of Cañon City, passed away on November 22, 2025, from complications of pneumonia. 

 He was born in Colorado to Judy and Lloyd (Howdy) Howdeshell.

Lou was a Husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle and friend, but above all he cherished being called “Papa”.

After attending Cañon city high school Lou began working at the Belvedere as a bartender. Later, he pursued a career in welding, a skill he mastered with passion and talent throughout the years.

 Lou worked at Portec, CSM/Critical Path Metalworks earning respect as a renowned welder whose skill and dedication were admired by all of his colleagues and loved ones alike.  He was especially talented as a Mig and Tig welder.

Outside of work, Lou loved football, especially cheering for his Denver Broncos and he had a deep passion for NASCAR. Many a Sunday, you could hear him yelling at the TV from outside the house. 

Lou had the most infectious laugh. A laugh that would resonate in the entire room. He loved gathering with his extended family for various holidays. Lou was highly opinionated and most importantly defended his political position. He will be deeply missed, but his laughter, love and spirit will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him. We take comfort in knowing that Lou is now reunited with his beloved son Travis, whose memory he carried with him always. 

Louis is survived by his wife, Dawn (Walker) Howdeshell, his daughter Tia (Weston) Gandy, son Tylor Howdeshell and Lyndrea Hockman, 3 Grandsons, Antonio, Tucker & Carson and a granddaughter, Luna and baby Gandy who's on the way. 

Sister Sondra (Jerry) Baca, Stepbrothers Levi (Mariah) Converse and Louis (Heather) Converse. 

His Father and Stepmother, Lloyd & Janet Howdeshell. Mother-in-law JoAnn Walker, Father-in-law William (Sue) Walker.

Brothers-in-law Jason & Bill Walker (Jeanine Traficante), Sisters-in-laws MaryAnn (Tim) O'Dell and Kelly Reisch and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces & nephews.

Louis is proceeded in death by his mother Judy, his son Travis and his brother-in-law Cody.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at the Steeple Event Center in Canon City, Colorado.

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