Broadcaster, artist, former sheriff join colorful Wall of Honor mix

Some of them are lawyers, doctors and teachers.

Others are soldiers, businessmen and musicians.

This year’s Wall of Honor inductees consisted of an artist, a former sheriff and a radio personality.

And each of the three Ottawa High School graduates was honored Thursday night at the annual Wall of Honor banquet and program at Ottawa High School.

“It’s an eclectic bunch,” Susan Geiss, organizer of the event, said during the ceremony. “But all of the inductees began their life’s journey here at Ottawa High School.”

William (Bill) Howe, class of 1947; Rex Bowling, class of 1965; and Brad Howard, class of 1979, were inducted into the Wall of Honor this year — the school’s highest honor. The inductees were recognized Friday during halftime of the Ottawa football game.

Howe, who died in August, was a world-renowned butterfly expert, authoring and illustrating several books.

“Bill Howe traveled all over the world but chose to make his art here,” Derek Chappell, OHS class of 1983, said. Chappell announced inductees during the program.

Bowling, who died of cancer in 2004, served as Franklin County sheriff for 27 years and was named “Outstanding Young Public Protector” by the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce.

“All I remember is Rex always being there,” Chappell said. “He was everywhere.”

Howard, owner of KOFO radio station in Ottawa, purchased the station in 1987 and has received numerous awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters.

“He’s a walking testament to what you can do with sleep deprivation,” Chappell joked.

Friends and family members of each of the inductees were present at the ceremony — and Howard’s daughter, Kylene, escorted him to the stage.

“This is by far the most exciting thing that’s ever happened to me,” Howard said. “To have her escort me is very, very special.”

Howard added that all three inductees chose to live in Ottawa — a testament to the community and the school system.

“When I was in school, all I thought about was getting out of Ottawa,” he said. “Now, I can’t think of a better place to raise my children.”