Howard Eric Springsteen (Howie), son of Howard D. and Mary E. "Betty" (Williams) Springsteen was born in Rock Island, IL on December 7th, 1965, and passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, October 6, 2025, at his home in Milan.  Howie was 59 years old.  A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00am on Friday, October 24, 2025, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Matherville, Illinois, followed by burial in Calvary Cemetery, Rock Island.  The family will be receiving friends at the church one hour prior to the Mass.

Howie grew up in Andalusia, Illinois and graduated in 1984 from Rockridge High School in Edgington, Illinois.  After spending some time living and working in Florida, he returned to the Quad Cities where he attended and graduated from Hamilton Technical College.  He received a degree in Electronics which led him to an early career in design, development and circuit board production.  In addition, Howie absolutely loved art, design and drawing from childhood through adulthood.  With these skills, he set his sights on an adventure, but to the West coast this time.  He packed up his car and animals and headed to San Diego to attend Animation school.  He excelled, graduated and took a job with the school, successfully designing 3D games.  He also worked for about 14 years at San Diego Gas and Electric Company before returning once again to his roots in the Quad Cities in 2017.  Most recently, he was employed as the IT Manager for Eriksen Chevrolet in Milan.

Howie enjoyed woodworking in his shop, laser engraving, and gaming online with his many friends. He especially enjoyed collaborating on woodworking projects and spending time with his brother.  Through the years, Howie absolutely loved his canine and feline buddies.  From the time he was a young boy, he had a special place in his heart for his many pets.  When he was out and about in his neighborhood, he couldn't be spotted without his trusty canine companion, Bruce.

Howie is survived by his siblings who will cherish his memory and who miss him dearly:  Linda Bivens in Tennessee, John (Sherry) Springsteen of Edgington, Sue (Dave) Short in Florida, and Colleen (Jon) Nation of Blue Grass; 16 nieces and nephews, 22 great nieces and nephews with 2 more on the way, and dozens of cousins.  Howie was preceded in death by his parents, his brother-in-law, John Bivens and a nephew, Andrew Springsteen.

Online condolences may be left for the family on Howie's tribute wall.  Memorials may be made in care of your local animal shelter in Howie's name.  Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan is assisting the family.