Rev. Howard Westlund, a devoted servant of God, passed away, peacefully at home in the presence of his family, on Thursday, February 13, 2025. His life was a testimony to God's faithfulness and grace, as he faithfully followed the Lord's calling throughout his journey.

Howard's spiritual heritage was deeply rooted in the Readers Revival of 1850 in Scandinavia, where his great-grandparents came to faith. His grandmother's steadfast belief led to the salvation of his grandfather, setting the foundation for a legacy of Christian devotion. His mother, Olga Helen Cedergren, was a strong and faithful believer, whose prayers and guidance greatly influenced Howard's spiritual journey.

Born and raised in Fargo, North Dakota, Howard experienced the call of God at a young age. At just 13 years old, while walking to a neighborhood grocery store, he felt God's voice saying, "You belong to me now, will you serve me?" Without hesitation, he answered, "Yes." That commitment defined the rest of his life.

Howard pursued his calling at Northwestern Bible School in Minneapolis, where he deepened his faith and prepared for ministry. It was there that he met his beloved wife, Lois Foss. Their shared commitment to missionary service brought them together, and they were married on July 22, 1950. Their journey was marked by God's provision, including a miraculous Thanksgiving when unexpected gifts arrived just in time to provide a meal.

Howard and Lois eagerly anticipated serving as missionaries in Pakistan, but God had other plans. A battle with polio altered their path, yet they remained faithful, transitioning into pastoral ministry. Howard served churches in Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and ultimately, for 26 years at West Chicago Bible Church. His leadership was marked by unwavering faith, resilience, and a deep love for his congregation.

In addition to his pastoral roles, Howard and Lois faced personal trials with remarkable faith. The loss of their children, Janet and Paul, was a profound sorrow, yet they continued to trust in God's perfect plan. After concluding his tenure at West Chicago, Howard accepted a call to serve as pastor for the English-speaking church in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. He later ministered to 13 churches as an interim pastor and became the Director of Pastoral Care for Interim Pastor Ministries.

Howard's life was a testimony to God's perfect timing. He embraced every challenge and change with trust in the Lord's guidance. His unwavering faith, love for his family, and dedication to the gospel left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He  he is survived by daughters,  Jean Kari Chase (Bob), Petrea Ann Ratliff (Tim) and daughter-in-law, LaVonne Westlund, 11 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lois, his children, Timothy Jon, Janet Lois, & Paul Timothy.  Though he has departed from this world, his legacy of faith and service will continue to inspire generations to come.

A graveside service will be held at Glen Oak Cemetery in West Chicago on Thursday, February 20 at 9:00 a.m.

A celebration of Howard's life and faith will be held at Village Church of Bartlett, 601 W Bartlett Rd, Bartlett, IL 60103 on Thursday, February 20 at 11:00 a.m.  Friends may visit with the family prior to the service, from 10:00 until 11:00 and following the service during a reception. A live-stream of the service will be available here.

The family requests that donations be made to Mark and Emily Westlund:   Donate by visiting omusa.org/give . Look for the "direct your donation to support a worker" section on the right and search for "Westlund"

To give by check, make it payable to OM and mail it to: Operation Mobilization USA, PO Box 444, Tyrone, GA 30290-0444. Write "For Mark & Emily Westlund 2240018" on the memo line.