Jean K. Howick

Jean K. Howick, 91, of Merrill passed peacefully on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, following a very courageous battle with cancer.

Jean was born in London, England to Charles and Edna ‘Kathy’ Howick. She came to the United States in the early 50’s and settled in the Minneapolis area. In the early 70’s, the family relocated to Merrill.

Jean spent her Merrill career at M.A.P.S. as secretary to the superintendent. It was a position she enjoyed and while there made many life-long friends.

Jean enjoyed world travel and, on many occasions, encouraged friends to join in the adventures. She also enjoyed traveling the U.S. Many stateside adventures were with her English cousins Ian and Jill Simmons, who visit Merrill regularly.

Jean enjoyed bridge club, Red Hats, and sorority get-togethers. She was a hospital volunteer and also lead water aerobics classes. She volunteered her time with Park City Gardens as well.

She was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill.

Jean is survived by her daughter, Karen (Jim) Schooley; grandchildren, Colin (Jillian) Schooley and Sarah (Mike) Van Der Geest; great grandchildren, Adalyn and Beckett Schooley, and Essa and Noah Van Der Geest; as well as grandson, Justin Foehringer. She is further survived by Ian, Jill, and other cousins in the U.K. Jean was preceded in death by her son, Mark Foehringer.

The family would like to thank her amazing friends who, when she was no longer up for phone calls or visits, sent prayers, cards, notes, and flowers, especially Marla for coming to our house for one last “best day of the month” massage.

We would also like to thank Compassus Hospice whose kind and knowledgeable staff enabled the family to keep Mom with us for the last month of her life.

Love and Blessings to you all.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation of Merrill is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com