TL/DR –
The article is an obituary for Howie, a man born in Marquette, Michigan in 1935 and died in 2024. Howie led a full life, serving in the army, working in a print shop in Illinois, being a dedicated hiker and gardener, and relocating to Rio Rancho, New Mexico after retirement before finally settling in Albany, Oregon. He was married to his wife Crys for over 48 years, was a fan of jazz and big band music, enjoyed playing Cribbage and Pinochle, and supported various sports teams.
Memorial Tribute: The Story of Howie from Marquette, Michigan
Born in Marquette, Upper Peninsula, Michigan, Howie was a dignified Yooper who passed away at 88 after a fierce struggle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. Predeceased by his parents, Emanuel Carl Oscar Johnson and Phoebe P. Johnson, and five siblings, he leaves behind several nieces and nephews.
Howie, a survivor of multiple health issues, including sleep apnea, diabetes, heart surgeries, TIAs, and a recent brain bleed, was a fighter to the end. Despite his deteriorating health due to lung disease, he remained positive until his final sleep.
After graduating from Graveraet High School in 1954, Howie was drafted into the army in 1958. Serving at the Fort Belvoir, VA, Army Print Shop, he was honored with a Good Conduct Medal. His military journey concluded with an Honorable Discharge in 1960.
On returning to Marquette, Howie worked at Elmer’s farm and Guelff’s print shop before moving to Rockford, Illinois. There, he served General Lithographing and Printing for several years, showcasing his dedication and skills.
A passionate hiker, Howie met his future wife, Crystal Carter, while hiking with the Blackhawk Trails Hiking Club. The couple shared a unique sense of humor and a mutual love for nature. Their memorable hikes include a yearly 26-mile journey around Lake Geneva, WI.
The duo, who tied the knot on June 18, 1976, cherished hiking experiences in National Parks and Monuments, cruising on the Colorado River, and visiting Howie’s hometown. They enjoyed listening to the train horns at night in Albany, reminding them of an “Ore boat coming in.”
Howie, also known as “How”, was a proficient gardener and a culinary artist. He was recognized for his spaghetti sauce made from garden tomatoes and hand-made Cornish Pasties. Apart from these, he was a diligent BTC Bowling Secretary for 16 years.
After retirement, Howie and Crys, along with their cats, relocated to Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and then to Albany, Oregon. They enjoyed Jazz and Big Band music together, with a shared love for the movie Anatomy of a Murder, which was filmed in Howie’s hometown.
Howie was a skilled Cribbage player and a sports enthusiast, with a special affection for Hockey. He was an ardent follower of the Red Wings and later the Kraken, Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Tigers, and the Mariners.
Howie’s final services were privately conducted at Fisher Funeral Home in Albany. He is warmly remembered by his personal caregivers, neighbors, paramedics, medical staff, and his devoted wife, Crys.
Crys fondly remembers Howie for his steadfastness, intelligence, and peaceful demeanor. In her words, “Howie, I will love you for all eternity, and I look forward to being with you again.”
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