Dates
Howard peacefully left this world on August 19, 2026 at home at the age of 88, surrounded by loved ones.
Howard was born on March 26, 1938 in Santa Anna Texas to Laura (McClain) & Roland Swaringin. He attended school in Christoval and Lakeview in San Angelo. Howard began his cowboy life working on the -S Ranch, which later became the Rocker b Ranch, where he met the love of his life, Sue Ann Covey. They were married February 26, 1959, sharing 67 years side by side. Howard spent many long days roping and training horses, doctoring cattle and many other numerous projects. Howard was the last surviving cowboy of -S Ranch. After retiring from ranch work, Howard became a contract pumper, and later retired to ranch life again.
Howard had a great love of the outdoors of hunting, fishing and all animal life. He had a passion for his horses, dogs, deer and birds. He loved to watch the deer from the kitchen table, come to the feeder at the backyard. Howard spent many years playing cowboy polo, steer roping, and fishing where he developed lifelong friends.
Howard is survived by the love of his life of 67 years, Sue Ann; daughters Beverly and husband James Jeffrey of McCaulley; Bonnie Robinson of Mertzon; and son Ron Swaringin of Mertzon. Grandson Brandon Arnold of McCaulley, Tye and wife Cymber Jeffrey of Veribest, granddaughter Trista and husband Jared Hawkins of Terrell. Granddaughters Reann and husband Zane McMahon of Coleman, and Colby Robinson of San Angelo; and 10 great grand children. Sister Carolyn Templin of San Angelo, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and many close friends. Howard was preceded in death by his parents, his older sister Ruth and husband Norman Guess, and brother in law Walt Templin.
A viewing will take place on Sunday, August 23, 2026, from 12:00 to 5:00 pm. The funeral service will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 10:00 am at Harper Funeral Home with a graveside service to follow at Mertzon Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mertzon Cemetery Association.
Honorary Pall Bearers are James Woodfin, Dale Pearce, Clint Byers, Phill Farr, Jimmy Basham, and Freddy Brooks.