Howard E. Wilt, Jr.

Howard E. Wilt, Jr., 96, of Williamsport, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 19, 2026.

Born December 27, 1929 in Williamsport, he was the son of the late Howard Elmer Wilt, Sr. and Mame Viola (Crossley) Wilt, and the beloved husband of Jean M. (McEwen) Wilt.

Howard proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, serving on the front lines during the Korean War from 1951 to 1952. His commitment to fellow veterans continued long after his military service. He was a founding member of the Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County, a member of the Williamsport Marine Corps League, Lycoming County Veterans Council, and served as Commander of the Korean War Honor Guard. Throughout the years, Howard participated in more than 2,000 military funeral honors ceremonies, ensuring that veterans were laid to rest with the dignity, respect, and gratitude they had earned through their service. Fittingly, at the time of his passing, Howard was en route to provide honors for another veteran.

Howard’s devotion to veterans extended beyond military funeral honors. He played an important role in the development and preservation of the Lycoming County Veterans Memorial Park, helping ensure that the sacrifices of America’s service members would be remembered and honored for generations to come. An exceptional spokesperson and accomplished toastmaster, he was often called upon to speak at patriotic events and veterans’ ceremonies, where his passion for his fellow veterans and his country was evident to all who heard him.

Howard retired from Lonza Corporation, formerly Glyco Chemicals, after 40 years of dedicated service as Safety Director. Throughout his career and retirement, he remained actively involved in numerous organizations and councils throughout the region, generously sharing his leadership, wisdom, and time in service to others.

Above all else, Howard was a devoted family man. A loving husband, dedicated father, and proud grandfather known affectionately as “Pap,” he treasured time spent with his family. He believed strongly in bringing loved ones together and created countless memories through family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and annual camping trips that his children fondly remember. He had a gift for telling a good dad joke, often bringing laughter to those around him.

Howard’s life was guided by three unwavering principles: God, Country, and Family. He loved America deeply and was immensely proud to be a United States Marine. His patriotism was woven into everyday life, and his family knew that whenever the Marine Corps Hymn was played, everyone was expected to stand in honor of the Corps he loved so dearly.

An outdoorsman at heart, Howard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature. He was also licensed in firearm repair and took great pride in the craftsmanship and skill the work required. Together, Howard and Jean shared a love of winemaking, creating not only homemade wines but cherished memories along the way.

Known for his feisty personality, strong convictions, and boundless patriotic spirit, Howard lived life with remarkable determination. Even at 96 years old, he approached each day with enthusiasm and purpose, never allowing age to define or limit him. His steadfast faith in God, unwavering love of country, and deep devotion to his family shaped a life of service, honor, and integrity.

Howard was preceded in death by his first wife Cordelia May “Dolly” (Skelton) Wilt; a daughter in law Cheryl Wilt; a son in law Craig Lyons; and three sisters Vivian Hakes, Doris Lose and Alberta Miller.

Surviving besides his wife are sons Thomas H. Wilt of Montgomery, Scott M. Wilt and daughter-in-law Patty of South Williamsport; four daughters, Susan M. Miller and son-in-law Michael of South Williamsport, Dawn L. Steinbacher and son-in-law Thomas of Williamsport, Kelly D. Wrightson and Tammy L. Lyons, of South Williamsport; a stepdaughter Susan Reichley and her husband Bob of Boalsburg; eleven grandchildren and nineteen great grandchildren.

A funeral service to honor Howard’s life will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 26, at Messiah Lutheran Church, 324 S. Howard St., South Williamsport. Burial will follow in Green Lawn Memorial Park, Montgomery. A viewing will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond St., Williamsport. Full military honors will be accorded by his fellow comrades, who will also provide casket guard duty in recognition of Howard’s dedicated service to his country and fellow veterans.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Howard’s name to the Korean War Veterans of Lycoming County, P.O. Box 3232, Williamsport, PA 17701 or the Marine Corps League, 507 Cemetery St., Williamsport, PA 17701.

Online condolences may be expressed on Howard’s memorial page at www.SandersMortuary.com.