Howard Callaway, of Mankato, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026. He was born on June 9, 1948, to Tom and Agnes (Valeka) Callaway in Esbon, Kansas.
Howard attended Esbon Grade School and graduated from Esbon High School in 1966. He continued his education at Fort Hays State University, graduating in 1970.
In 1979, Howard married Ann Beckerdite. Two sons, Kyle and Travis, were born to this union. The family made their home in Mankato in 1987.
Howard enjoyed farming and had many stories to share about his years in agriculture, especially the days spent harvesting. Those experiences and memories remained an important part of his life. He also had a lifelong love of sports, particularly football and basketball, and was a devoted KU fan.
After his farming years, Howard turned his attention to buying and selling. He enjoyed attending auctions and flea markets, where he made many friendships along the way. Some of those friends remained lifelong companions, while others preceded him in death. Howard treasured the time spent visiting, sharing stories, and making memories with the many people he met throughout his life.
Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Agnes (Valeka) Callaway, and his brothers, Kenneth and Ronald.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Ann Callaway; his sons, Kyle Callaway and his children, Kayson Graham, Kaylee Callaway, and Kinley Callaway; and Travis Callaway, his daughter, Berkley Callaway, and Travis’s fiancée, Julie Rumbaugh, along with her children, Jackson Rumbaugh and Jordon Rumbaugh.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Melby Mortuary in Mankato, Kansas, with Pastor Thaddeus Hinkle officiating. Burial will follow at Esbon Cemetery in Esbon, Kansas. A Luncheon will be held at the Christian Church in Mankato, Kansas following burial.
Memorials may be sent to Morrison House - Salina Regional in care of Melby Mortuary, P.O. Box 384, Mankato, KS 66956. For online condolences, please visit www.melbymortuary.com.