Kevin Howell Obituary: Illinois State Police Mourns Trooper and Lodge 41 President

The Illinois law enforcement community is mourning the passing of Trooper Kevin Howell, badge number 5963, a dedicated Illinois State Police officer and president of Illinois State Troopers Lodge 41. His death has brought sadness to fellow officers, family members, friends, and colleagues who remember his years of public service, leadership, and determination.

Howell joined the Illinois State Police in June 2007 and devoted his career to serving the people of Illinois. Beyond his responsibilities as a trooper, he became an influential representative of fellow law enforcement officers through his leadership in the Fraternal Order of Police.

He is also being remembered for his prolonged battle with cancer, which he faced while continuing to support his colleagues and fulfill his professional responsibilities whenever possible.

Remembering Trooper Kevin Howell and His Law Enforcement Career

Kevin Howell began his Illinois State Police career in June 2007 after completing the department’s training academy as a member of Cadet Class 115.

During his career, he served in several assignments, including District 1, District 20, and District 9. His professional responsibilities included patrol duties and specialized training roles.

He also served as a K-9 handler, crowd control instructor, rapid deployment instructor, and emergency vehicle operations instructor. In addition, he obtained certification in pursuit intervention techniques before the Illinois State Police introduced its own training program.

His experience reflected a commitment to professional development, public safety, and helping other officers strengthen their law enforcement skills.

Leadership With Illinois State Troopers Lodge 41

Howell’s involvement with the Fraternal Order of Police began in 2016, when he became a trustee representing District 9.

He subsequently served as chair of the trustees and later became the lodge’s full-time secretary in 2022. In 2024, he was elected first vice president before becoming president of Illinois State Troopers Lodge 41 on August 1, 2025.

As president, he represented approximately 3,400 active and retired law enforcement members, according to the information provided by the lodge and his memorial tributes.

His responsibilities included advocating for officers, supporting their professional interests, and contributing to discussions about workplace conditions and law enforcement welfare.

The Illinois State Police also recognized his professional contributions. He was nominated for Trooper of the Year in 2013 and received the Medal of Honor in 2021.

Kevin Howell’s Battle With Cancer

One of the most significant parts of Howell’s personal story was his prolonged battle with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue.

According to information previously published by the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation, he was diagnosed in November 2016. He underwent surgery and treatment before the cancer returned in 2020.

The disease reportedly returned again in late 2024 and subsequent years, requiring additional procedures and extensive treatment.

His medical journey included multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation treatment, and participation in a clinical trial.

Despite the challenges, Howell remained committed to his family, his colleagues, and his leadership responsibilities. His determination throughout the treatment process became an important part of the tributes shared following his passing.

The Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation later announced that he had died following a nearly decade-long battle with cancer.

Family Life and Personal Legacy

Away from his law enforcement responsibilities, Howell was a husband and father whose family remained an important source of support throughout his illness.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, and their four children, according to the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation.

During his treatment, Howell and his family received encouragement and support from fellow officers, friends, and members of the wider law enforcement community.

The support reflected the strong connections he had developed throughout his years of public service and his involvement with the Fraternal Order of Police.

Kevin Howell Personal Details

What Was Kevin Howell’s Cause of Death?

Kevin Howell died following a prolonged battle with cancer, according to the Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation.

He was initially diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue in November 2016. The cancer later returned, leading to further surgeries and treatment over several years.

His treatment reportedly included chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and clinical trial participation.

The Heritage Foundation’s memorial announcement described his death as following a nearly decade-long fight with cancer. The specific immediate medical cause of death has not been detailed in the information available.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Specific funeral, visitation, and memorial service arrangements for Kevin Howell have not been provided in the available announcement.

Details of the obituary, memorial and funeral will be announced by the family.

Friends, colleagues, and members of the law enforcement community wishing to pay their respects should look for an official announcement from his family or the Illinois State Police community.

Illinois State Police and Law Enforcement Community Pay Tribute

Following Howell’s passing, the Illinois State Police expressed its sadness and asked the public to keep his family, friends, and fellow officers in their thoughts.

The department remembered him as a trusted colleague and respected leader whose contributions would continue to influence the organization.

His work with Troopers Lodge 41 also reflected a commitment to improving the welfare of law enforcement personnel and supporting those who dedicated their lives to public service.

For many officers, Howell’s legacy will remain connected to his leadership, professional dedication, and determination to continue serving others despite his personal health challenges.

Honoring Trooper Kevin Howell’s Memory

Kevin Howell devoted nearly two decades to the Illinois State Police and spent much of that time supporting the people who served alongside him.

His career included patrol assignments, specialized training, and leadership within the Fraternal Order of Police. His determination throughout his cancer battle added another important dimension to the legacy remembered by his colleagues and loved ones.

He leaves behind his wife, Kathleen, their four children, extended family, friends, and a law enforcement community that will remember his service.

Our deepest condolences go to the Howell family, fellow Illinois State Police officers, and everyone mourning his passing.

May his family find strength and comfort in the memories they shared with him.

Rest in peace, Trooper Kevin Howell. Your service, leadership, and dedication will not be forgotten.

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