Todd Lane Howsare died peacefully at home on October 31, 2024, in Dunedin, FL at the age of 58.
Todd is survived by wife, Melissa A (Huntington) Howsare; daughter, Estee N Howsare; grandson, JT Martin; mother, Skip Howsare; siblings, Michael (Kristen) Howsare and Ross Howsare; niece Victoria and nephews, TJ and Tank. He was preceded in death by his father, James L Howsare.
Todd was born on March 19, 1966, in Altoona, PA, to James and Skip. On September 3, 2005, he married Melissa at Bayside Community Church in Safety Harbor. They shared 19 years of marriage.
Todd was a 1984 graduate of Dunedin High School who loved education and learning and was a proud Marine. In 1989, he earned his bachelor’s degree in bible and theology from Toccoa Falls College. Upon graduation, Todd enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving from 1989 to 1995 at MCAS Yuma and then in Operation Desert Storm. After his time in the service, Todd continued his post graduate studies and earned an MBA in 1999 from USF; a specialist degree in 2017 from FSU; and was in the process of completing his PhD when he began his battle with cancer. Todd worked a few years in the business world but found his calling and passion when he became a teacher and coach for cross-country and track with Pinellas County Schools for 20 years, retiring in 2021. He was inspired by his cross-country and track athletes when they saw the results of their hard work through practice and competition.
Todd found enjoyment in watching sports, gardening, grilling, talking with others and studying the Bible and its works to gain a deeper relationship with God. He most recently attended Church Experience in Dunedin, FL to worship and express his love of our Lord. Todd had an ability to start up a conversation with anyone, especially if they were wearing anything related to military or Pittsburgh Steelers gear.
A Memorial Service is scheduled for November 9, 2024, at Church Experience, 1400 San Christopher Dr., Dunedin, FL 34698 at 10:30 am. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Todd’s life.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Church Experience, 1400 San Christopher Dr., Dunedin, FL 34698 in honor of Todd or “Dunedin High School Cross Country”. Checks can be mailed to at Dunedin High School, 1651 Pinehurst Rd, Dunedin, FL 34698 or donate online at https://pcsb.revtrak.net/High-Schools/dunedin-high/dhs-athletics/#/v/dhs-athletic-donation-fund.
The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Moffitt Cancer Center for their compassionate care and treatment. During his battle with cancer his mantra was “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain”, Philippians 1:21.
Coach Howsare was an amazing teacher, coach and person. I had the privilege of teaching with him at Dunedin High School. We enjoyed talking during our planning periods or during lunch. He was hilariously funny and quite humble.
My prayers go out to his family. He will truly be missed!
A veteran- thank you for your service, Coach!
Harry and I are so sorry for your loss! Todd was a fine young man! We send our love and prayers to you and your family!
Mr. Howsare was my cross country and track coach for 2 years at Dunedin High School. When I was a Junior he was also my math teacher. I considered him to be my favorite teacher in high school because he was nice and helpful. He once told me that I was the heart and soul of the cross country team. He also knew that I had autism before my parents or I knew about it. I was lucky to know him and I know that I will miss him very much. If I could say just one thing to him it would be thanks for being so awesome.
Dear Melissa, Skip and family,
I am sad to hear of Todd’s struggle with cancer, that has taken him from you. We know he’s in heaven worshipping Jesus and having a great reunion with Jim. Todd and I go back to the Bayside Church days and the Singles Group that he taught. We learned a lot about the Word and made good friendships. Todd left his touch on many people. I am very sorry for your loss.
Patti DaPra-Ashcom
To the Howsare family….I am shocked and saddened to learn of Todd’s passing. I have fond memories of acting with him in our Easter play at Bayside and having the opportunity to get to know him better. My prayers and love go out to you all.
Dear Melissa & family, prayers to all in Todd’s passing. I was saddened to see this. Todd was a blessing to me at Bayside as he led many Bible classes & studies , even back in my apartment in Clearwater. God bless you all. Dawn Hughes (Widlicka)