Robert "Howard" Temple, 83, of Ottawa, IL, died on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Pavilion of Ottawa. He was born on March 8, 1943, in Ottawa, IL, the son of the late Joseph H. and Dorothy J. Temple (née McEwing).

He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Serena, IL. In his early years, Howard drove a semi-truck for Harold Stone Trucking, hauling cattle into the Chicago Stockyards. He later worked as a herdsman for Northern Pump Farms, a historically prominent registered Hereford cattle breeding operation in McHenry, IL. In the late 1970s, he started H&F Construction. He judged many horse shows over the years and also enjoyed making various items out of old horseshoes for family and friends. He never saw an auction he didn't want to browse, but he never came home empty-handed. Howard ruled with a strict demeanor and had a loving heart toward his children and animals.

He is survived by his wife, Jill P. Lewis; two daughters, Karmella "Karmi" (John Tregoning) Temple and Torrey Temple; one son, Duane Temple; two grandchildren, Derek Temple and Robert Sullivan; one sister, Jane Novey; and one brother, James (Melinda) Temple.

All services will be private, per Howard's request.

Memorials may be directed to LaSalle County 4-H, c/o University of Illinois Extension, 1689 N. 31st Road, Suite 2, Ottawa, IL 61350, in memory of Howard Temple.

Arrangements have been entrusted to GABEL-DUNN FUNERAL HOME, LTD., 333 West Church Street, Sheridan, IL.

For additional information, call 815-496-2003 or visit www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com.