A Kansas House member from Wichita has died after a lengthy illness.

Ron Howard was the state representative for District 98 in south Wichita and Haysville.  He has represented the district since 2019 and was re-elected to a second term last year. He had missed a sizable portion of the 2021 session but returned for veto override votes late in the session.    Before taking office in the Legislature, Howard had worked for Boeing and also ran a lawn service company.

Governor Kelly has ordered flags at state facilities to fly at half-staff until Howard’s funeral.  She issued a statement:

“My thoughts are with Rep. Ron Howard’s wife, Terri, and all of his friends and family during this difficult time.   A former Boeing worker and lawn care service owner, Rep. Howard shared a proud, hardworking background with many in his South Wichita and Haysville district. Despite facing difficult health challenges, Rep. Howard’s perseverance demonstrated his strong dedication to those he served.”