Howard G. Garren, age 83 of Centralia, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon after a brief illness. Howard was born on October 22, 1936 in Centralia, the son of Howard James and Anna (Wilson) Garren. He married Reta (Lamkin) Garren in 1971 in Mt. Vernon and she survives in Centralia. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Regina Dehn of Centralia and Roni Smith and husband Robby Jr. of Walnut Hill; two grandchildren, Lauren Smith and special friend Brandon Beaver and Robby Smith III; three brothers, Dale Garren and wife Linda of Centralia, Donald Garren of Centralia and Earl Garren of Rolla, MO; two sisters, Doris Fouts of Centralia and Ruth Johnston of Sandoval; one sisters-in-law, Susan Lamkin of Olney; and three brothers-in-law, James Lamkin and wife Cheryl of Texas, Joe Lamkin and wife Judy of Oklahoma and Art McIntyre of Oklahoma. Howard was preceded in death by his parents, James and Anna Garren; brother, Melvin Garren; son-in-law, Randy Dehn; mother-in-law, Mary Kraus; four sisters-in-law, Debra Garren, Sandra Leist, Pat McIntyre and Judy Lamkin and one brother-in-law, Mike Johnston. Howard worked for several years in the Teamsters doing road construction, he then served at the Centralia Township Road Commissioner for 20 years. He enjoyed his family and his friends, and enjoyed farming, which brought him great joy. There will be no public services at this time, due to the COVID restrictions. Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family. Memorials can be made to the donor’s choice and can be received at the funeral home.