Howard L. Campbell

Howard L. Campbell, born on June 1, 1942, in Seattle, Washington, passed away on November 28, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He led a distinguished career marked by significant contributions to local government, housing, and education.

Howard grew up moving often, spending his formative years in California and Montana. He regaled his family with stories of his youth, particularly in Great Falls, Montana, where he graduated from high school and cemented his love of the American West. After graduation, Howard attended University of the Pacific, earning a scholarship as the quarterback of the football team, and graduating in 1964. Howard’s unwavering dedication to life-long learning took him to Washington, D.C., where he earned a Master’s degree in government from The George Washington University in 1966, and later a Ph.D. from The American University in 1972. During his studies in D.C., Howard began his public service career, holding a series of jobs on Capitol Hill. There, he met Karen Anderson, whom he married in 1967.

Howard’s professional journey began in with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in East Chicago, Indiana, where his three children—Kevin, Scott, and Erin—were born. In 1978, the family moved to Indianapolis, where Howard continued his commitment to improving community living standards as the Indiana State HUD director from 1978 to 1981. Following his tenure in government, he transitioned into real estate development and management until 2004, leaving his mark on residential property management across the country. Howard was known as a tough, but mostly fair, manager and colleague, earning the admiration and dedication of many that worked with him.

In the latter part of his career, Howard began to use his hard-earned Ph.D. when he transitioned to being “Dr. Campbell” as an assistant professor of Residential Property Management at Ball State University. Dr. Campbell relished mentoring future professionals in the field. He finally retired in 2014 but kept busy with various consulting roles.

Howard’s greatest role was a father. He was a fixture at all of his kids’ activities, usually with a trademark cigar in hand. He was also a steadfast father figure to all who wandered in and out of the house during his kids’ teen years. In particular, he became a second father to Kelly Maher (Joe) Todd, and was honored to count her three children—Alex, Olivia, and Cooper—as bonus grandkids.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Karen L. (Anderson) Campbell; his sons, Kevin (Liza) Campbell and Scott (Jessica) Campbell; his daughter, Erin (Sean) Henderson; six grandchildren, Campbell, Emory, Isla, Grant, Asher, and Addison; his nephew, John (Laura) Hegarty; great nephews, Kyle and Lucas; and dear family friends that provided so much love and support in his final years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Olive Campbell; and sisters Pamela Hegarty and Peggy Campbell.

His legacy is one of profound impact: a committed public servant, an engaged educator, and a loving family man. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Services will be held on March 7, 2026. Details will be forthcoming.