Howard Steen

Howard Steen, 91, was called home by God on Friday, July 25, 2025, while residing in Wahpeton, ND. His visitation will take place on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a prayer service at St. John's Catholic Church in Wahpeton. His funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., with visitation one hour before the service at the church. Burial will be at a later date in Fairview Cemetery.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Vertin-Munson Funeral Home.

Howard Steen was born on November 18, 1933, to John and Laura (Huglen) Steen in Fergus Falls, MN. He graduated from Fergus Falls High School and completed his bachelor’s degree at the University of Minnesota.

Howard enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. As a pilot, he served his country for 20 years. He completed 2 tours of duty in Vietnam, earning a Distinguished Flying Cross award. Major Howard Steen was honorably discharged from the U.S. Air Force in 1976. He then began his McDonald’s Franchise Business, opening restaurants in LeMars, IA, Wahpeton, ND, and Morris, MN.

On August 21, 1954, Howard married Juanita Lenzmeier. While in the military, they lived on Air Force bases. After retirement from the Air Force, they most recently lived in Wahpeton, ND, and formerly in Starbuck, MN, and Hot Springs, AR.

He will be missed by his wife, Juanita, of over 70 years; his children, Michael (JoAnn), Mesa, AZ, Kimberly (Jeffrey) Beauchamp, Wahpeton, ND, and Kevin (Cathy), Fairfax Station, VA; his grandchildren, Matthew (Randee) Steen, Dianna (Seth) Knudsen, Jessica (Matthew) Bogenreif, Steffanie Beauchamp, Laura (Nathan) Leben, Kerri Beauchamp, Jared (Erin) Steen, Ethan (Wynn) Steen; 9 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Howard was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Angela Steen; his parents; and his siblings.

Howard was a humble man who was very giving to his family and others.