Jack
Jack D. Howrigon
Jack Dale Howrigon left his earthly home and exchanged it for his heavenly eternal home on Thursday, January 11, 2018. He was born November 1, 1929 in Plainwell, Michigan to Velma (Breck) and Leon Howrigon. In 1947 he lost his dad, leaving him and three younger brothers, Gene, Robert and Jerry at home.
In 1948 Jack graduated from Otsego High School and in 1949 he married his high school sweetheart, Clara Nimtz. On December 31, 2017 they celebrated their 68
th
wedding anniversary. Jack had worked at Ingersol of Kalamazoo until moving to Hammond Machinery Builders, Otsego Plant in 1955, retiring in 1990.
He loved sports and was a big “Go Blue” fan. He also enjoyed golfing and small game hunting with his dog Duffy. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Otsego, the Otsego Lions Club and the Otsego Elks Lodge. After his retirement Jack and Clara wintered in Gulf Shores for 18 years.
Surviving are his wife, Clara; their children, Sherry (Mike) Hanson of Otsego, Dave (Karen) Howrigon of Tennessee and Rick (Mary) Howrigon of Otsego; 6 grandchildren, Jaime (Shawn) Rogers, Ryan (Trisha) Howrigon, Sean (Megan) Howrigon, Megan (Chris) Brown, Abbie Hanson and Matt Howrigon; two international granddaughters, Nino and Maria and 13 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Robert and Jerry Howrigon; many nieces and nephews and his lifelong friend, Joyce Sheldon.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Velma Howrigon Whitney; his father, Leon; step-father, Frank Whitney; brother, Gene Howrigon and life time friend, Dean Sheldon.
So many earthly angels were present the last stretch of his life. He enjoyed all his company, kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, friends and extended family. A special thank you to Marshall Howrigon and Kerry Smalla for the extra visits and sharing the word.
He was blessed to have Lisa and Nancy of Wings of Hope Hospice caring for him. They served him with grace, respect and humor, all traits Jack admired.
Friends may visit with Jack’s family from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. Monday, January 15, 2018 at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego.
According to his wishes cremation will follow.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at the First Congregational Church of Otsego with Pastor Don Boss officiating.
Contributions in memory of Jack may be made to the First Congregational Church of Otsego or to
Wings of Hope Hospice
.
Messages of condolence may be posted at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
.
Offer Condolence for the family of Jack D. Howrigon
Condolence Messages
Tammy Pfau Leonard
January 11, 2018 at 5:03 pm
Praying for peace for all Family members❤️ Gods love and grace to comfort you during this time and the years to come~Keep and share those memories
Reply
Agnes Vanarsdal
January 11, 2018 at 5:06 pm
Sherry and all your family, Mike and my deepest sympathy in the loss of your father. We are in Florida and will be unable to go to visitation or the funeral and I am so sorry about that. May God’s Grace be with all who loved your dad.
In Christ Love,
Mike and Agnes Vanarsdal
Reply
Keith Kling
January 11, 2018 at 5:14 pm
Sherry, so sorry for your loss. Our fathers worked together at Hammonds and my dad always had a great deal of respect for Jack. Your reliance on the Lord will carry you through this time.
Keith & Sue Kling
Reply
Jo Jackson
January 11, 2018 at 5:32 pm
Sherry I am so saddened by this news, it is very hard to lose a parent! Your Mom and Dad were golf buddies with mine down in Gulf Shores and I know they shared many good times together! You have a strong faith and lots of family to lean on. I pray for “earth angels “ to lift you up in the next few days. Wish I could be there to give you a hug! Love and hugs to you my friend!
Reply
Linda Lyons
January 11, 2018 at 6:05 pm
So sorry Rick and Mary and family for your loss, hugs and prayers
Reply
Bob and Joan Gustafson
January 11, 2018 at 8:19 pm
We met Jack & Clara in Gulf Shores, Al during our winter get away from Michigan. A wonderful couple that we spent many winters enjoying their company. Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Reply
Dee Krcatovich
January 11, 2018 at 8:40 pm
Clara and the entire Howrigon family, My heart is saddened with the loss of your dear, sweet husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Jack was an amazing Christian man. I always looked forward to seeing him in church on Sunday mornings just to share a laugh or two. His presence has been deeply missed these last several months of his health struggles. He suffers no more. May our loving God open His arms and embrace all of you with peace and comfort the same way as he did Jack as he entered into his eternal home. Rest in peace dear friend. You are loved much and will be deeply missed.
Reply
Don & Sadie
January 11, 2018 at 9:31 pm
So very sorry. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. We love you all.
Reply
Deb Anderson
January 11, 2018 at 10:30 pm
Clara and Howrigon family. I was so very sorry to hear of Jack’s passing today. My heart breaks for all of you at this difficult time. I always loved seeing Jack smile and listening to his “comebacks” to the teasing Dee and I liked to give him in church. May God hold you in his loving arms and give all of you the strength, comfort and peace each of you need in the days that lie before you. Jack will be missed by so many. Much love to all of you.
Reply
Paula (Knowles) Beard
January 12, 2018 at 12:38 am
Sherry and family I am so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. He sounded like a great man and I know you will miss him dearly. He will always be in your heart and not very far away. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Reply
Paula (Knowles) Beard
January 12, 2018 at 12:38 am
Sherry and family I am so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. He sounded like a great man and I know you will miss him dearly. He will always be in your heart and not very far away. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Reply
Nino Dekanozishvili
January 12, 2018 at 3:17 am
My dear Grandma, Dad and Mom, Uncle Dave and Aunt Karen, Aunt Sherry and Uncle Mike and the entire Family, I’m so very sorry for your and my loss!! Much love and sorrow! Grandpa was so much loved by all! He was the symbol and the rock of the Howrigon Family! He will always be remembered! Love you Grandpa! ❤️
Love and prayers my dears! Sorry for not being able to be there, with you during such a difficult time.
Reply
Doug and Cindy Wesler
January 12, 2018 at 6:59 am
Rick and Mary, Very sorry for your loss. May God hold you all a little tighter in his arms during this difficult time.
Doug & Cindy
Reply
Mike & Chris Vandenberg
January 12, 2018 at 7:48 am
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Reply
Gary and Barb Rhoades
January 12, 2018 at 8:07 am
So sorry for the loss of your loved one and send our thoughts and prayers for Jack’s family and friends.
Reply
Cathy Klimczak
January 12, 2018 at 8:49 am
Sherry and family, I’m sending my deepest sympathy and love in the loss of your father. Because I’m in Florida I will be unable to go to visitation or the funeral but I’m sending Hugs and Love! May God comfort you and your family at this time and all the days to come.
Hugs
Cathy Klimczak
Reply
Lisa Brachman
January 12, 2018 at 8:55 am
What a difference one person can make on so many lives. My thoughts are with you all.
Reply
RON & PAT NEWMAN
January 12, 2018 at 8:56 am
MAY GOD REST HIS SOUL . WE WILL MISS HIM.
Reply
Sue Lindsey
January 12, 2018 at 12:01 pm
Sherry and family…I am so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing…My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time….Keep the memories close…he will always be in your heart….God has gained a great man in his army of angels….keep the Faith, many prayers go out to you…
Reply
Tim and Laurie Andrus
January 12, 2018 at 5:10 pm
Sherry Rick and family- what a tremendous example your father has been. Tim and I have you all in our prayers for comfort and peace.
Reply
Leona & Jim McLaughlin
January 12, 2018 at 5:10 pm
Dearest Clara and Family, There are no words that we can find to bring you much comfort at this time. We hope that you might draw strength from the well of our love and prayers that are right there with you!!
Reply
Rhonda Solomon
January 12, 2018 at 6:29 pm
Rick an Mary~I’m So Very Sorry For your loss. Sending My Thoughts and Prayers and Thinking of You All With Love♡
Reply
John W.Hart
January 12, 2018 at 8:40 pm
Sorry for your loss Sherry and family.
Reply
Tom Young
January 13, 2018 at 12:53 pm
I’m so sorry, prayers for your family, Love you all.
Reply
Kim Sheldon
January 13, 2018 at 9:35 pm
Clara, Sherry & Mike, Rick & Mary, Dave & Karen & families,
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. The memories that Jack has left behind will live forever in the hearts of those who loved him. Smile along with me as we imagine the reunion between two best friends. RIP Jack. Tell dad hi and we love him.
Bryon & Kim Sheldon Fairhope, AL
Reply
Kim Dorothy Blagg
January 14, 2018 at 8:29 am
He was a rich man, in the way we all dream of riches…and in the way we all should. In this sense, he does take them with him and the world will be a sadder place.
Reply
Jerry and Judy Shumaker
January 14, 2018 at 1:30 pm
Clara and Family. Jerry and I were so sorry to learn that you lost Jack. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May your special memories bring you comfort in the coming days, weeks, and months. Take care.
Reply
Garry &Teresa Parrish
January 14, 2018 at 2:08 pm
Clara and family, I just heard today about Jack. We send our Deepest Sympathy. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers and God has his loving arms around you now and always.. remember all your memories of Jack cause no one can take them away. He will be saddly missed. Take care. Love you all.
Reply
Sandy Norris
January 14, 2018 at 7:28 pm
It has always been so nice see Jack and Clara at family celebrations. Lovely, people. It is always hard to say goodbye to the ones we love but your faith will get you through these times. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Reply
Terry L. Burris
January 14, 2018 at 7:45 pm
So sorry for your loss Dave and family. Belle and I will try to make either the early or later visitation on Monday. Maybe we can catch up on old times. Terry Burris
Reply
Jacque Jennings-Carter
January 15, 2018 at 12:34 am
Sherry and entire family, I am so sorry for your loss. It is so very difficult to lose a parent. Wishing each of you peace and comfort as you go through this difficult and painful time. Blessings to the entire family.
Reply
Chris & Lynne Kelsey
January 15, 2018 at 1:15 pm
Dear Sherry & Family,
We are sorry for your loss. Continued prayers for comfort and peace.
Reply
Matt and Glenda Ash
January 15, 2018 at 5:52 pm
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Reply
Terry & Char Bonnell
January 16, 2018 at 3:37 pm
Sherry & family,
We are so sorry for your loss. May the many memories of your dad help comfort.
With love and prayers,
Reply
Joyce Sheldon
January 18, 2018 at 7:51 pm
My love and deepest sympathy to Clara, Sherry & Mike, Dave & Karen,Rick &Mary and their families…our Life Long Friends! Over the years our families have shared our good times and bad. So many great memories! May you find comfort in the thought that those we love remain with us for love itself lives on. Jack was a GREAT friend to Dean as well as our entire family!! He’ll be greatly missed!!
Reply
Pam Fuller Martin
January 22, 2018 at 1:34 am
Clara and family am so sorry to hear about Jack I learned to late to attend. The last thing Jack said to me was when dad passed he told me how much he’d missed him. My prayers are with you all.
Reply
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In 1948 Jack graduated from Otsego High School and in 1949 he married his high school sweetheart, Clara Nimtz. On December 31, 2017 they celebrated their 68
th
wedding anniversary. Jack had worked at Ingersol of Kalamazoo until moving to Hammond Machinery Builders, Otsego Plant in 1955, retiring in 1990.
He loved sports and was a big “Go Blue” fan. He also enjoyed golfing and small game hunting with his dog Duffy. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Otsego, the Otsego Lions Club and the Otsego Elks Lodge. After his retirement Jack and Clara wintered in Gulf Shores for 18 years.
Surviving are his wife, Clara; their children, Sherry (Mike) Hanson of Otsego, Dave (Karen) Howrigon of Tennessee and Rick (Mary) Howrigon of Otsego; 6 grandchildren, Jaime (Shawn) Rogers, Ryan (Trisha) Howrigon, Sean (Megan) Howrigon, Megan (Chris) Brown, Abbie Hanson and Matt Howrigon; two international granddaughters, Nino and Maria and 13 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Robert and Jerry Howrigon; many nieces and nephews and his lifelong friend, Joyce Sheldon.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Velma Howrigon Whitney; his father, Leon; step-father, Frank Whitney; brother, Gene Howrigon and life time friend, Dean Sheldon.
So many earthly angels were present the last stretch of his life. He enjoyed all his company, kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, friends and extended family. A special thank you to Marshall Howrigon and Kerry Smalla for the extra visits and sharing the word.
He was blessed to have Lisa and Nancy of Wings of Hope Hospice caring for him. They served him with grace, respect and humor, all traits Jack admired.
Friends may visit with Jack’s family from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. Monday, January 15, 2018 at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego.
According to his wishes cremation will follow.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at the First Congregational Church of Otsego with Pastor Don Boss officiating.
Contributions in memory of Jack may be made to the First Congregational Church of Otsego or to
Wings of Hope Hospice
.
Messages of condolence may be posted at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
.
Offer Condolence for the family of Jack D. Howrigon
Condolence Messages
Tammy Pfau Leonard
January 11, 2018 at 5:03 pm
Praying for peace for all Family members❤️ Gods love and grace to comfort you during this time and the years to come~Keep and share those memories
Reply
Agnes Vanarsdal
January 11, 2018 at 5:06 pm
Sherry and all your family, Mike and my deepest sympathy in the loss of your father. We are in Florida and will be unable to go to visitation or the funeral and I am so sorry about that. May God’s Grace be with all who loved your dad.
In Christ Love,
Mike and Agnes Vanarsdal
Reply
Keith Kling
January 11, 2018 at 5:14 pm
Sherry, so sorry for your loss. Our fathers worked together at Hammonds and my dad always had a great deal of respect for Jack. Your reliance on the Lord will carry you through this time.
Keith & Sue Kling
Reply
Jo Jackson
January 11, 2018 at 5:32 pm
Sherry I am so saddened by this news, it is very hard to lose a parent! Your Mom and Dad were golf buddies with mine down in Gulf Shores and I know they shared many good times together! You have a strong faith and lots of family to lean on. I pray for “earth angels “ to lift you up in the next few days. Wish I could be there to give you a hug! Love and hugs to you my friend!
Reply
Linda Lyons
January 11, 2018 at 6:05 pm
So sorry Rick and Mary and family for your loss, hugs and prayers
Reply
Bob and Joan Gustafson
January 11, 2018 at 8:19 pm
We met Jack & Clara in Gulf Shores, Al during our winter get away from Michigan. A wonderful couple that we spent many winters enjoying their company. Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Reply
Dee Krcatovich
January 11, 2018 at 8:40 pm
Clara and the entire Howrigon family, My heart is saddened with the loss of your dear, sweet husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Jack was an amazing Christian man. I always looked forward to seeing him in church on Sunday mornings just to share a laugh or two. His presence has been deeply missed these last several months of his health struggles. He suffers no more. May our loving God open His arms and embrace all of you with peace and comfort the same way as he did Jack as he entered into his eternal home. Rest in peace dear friend. You are loved much and will be deeply missed.
Reply
Don & Sadie
January 11, 2018 at 9:31 pm
So very sorry. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. We love you all.
Reply
Deb Anderson
January 11, 2018 at 10:30 pm
Clara and Howrigon family. I was so very sorry to hear of Jack’s passing today. My heart breaks for all of you at this difficult time. I always loved seeing Jack smile and listening to his “comebacks” to the teasing Dee and I liked to give him in church. May God hold you in his loving arms and give all of you the strength, comfort and peace each of you need in the days that lie before you. Jack will be missed by so many. Much love to all of you.
Reply
Paula (Knowles) Beard
January 12, 2018 at 12:38 am
Sherry and family I am so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. He sounded like a great man and I know you will miss him dearly. He will always be in your heart and not very far away. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Reply
Paula (Knowles) Beard
January 12, 2018 at 12:38 am
Sherry and family I am so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. He sounded like a great man and I know you will miss him dearly. He will always be in your heart and not very far away. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Reply
Nino Dekanozishvili
January 12, 2018 at 3:17 am
My dear Grandma, Dad and Mom, Uncle Dave and Aunt Karen, Aunt Sherry and Uncle Mike and the entire Family, I’m so very sorry for your and my loss!! Much love and sorrow! Grandpa was so much loved by all! He was the symbol and the rock of the Howrigon Family! He will always be remembered! Love you Grandpa! ❤️
Love and prayers my dears! Sorry for not being able to be there, with you during such a difficult time.
Reply
Doug and Cindy Wesler
January 12, 2018 at 6:59 am
Rick and Mary, Very sorry for your loss. May God hold you all a little tighter in his arms during this difficult time.
Doug & Cindy
Reply
Mike & Chris Vandenberg
January 12, 2018 at 7:48 am
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Reply
Gary and Barb Rhoades
January 12, 2018 at 8:07 am
So sorry for the loss of your loved one and send our thoughts and prayers for Jack’s family and friends.
Reply
Cathy Klimczak
January 12, 2018 at 8:49 am
Sherry and family, I’m sending my deepest sympathy and love in the loss of your father. Because I’m in Florida I will be unable to go to visitation or the funeral but I’m sending Hugs and Love! May God comfort you and your family at this time and all the days to come.
Hugs
Cathy Klimczak
Reply
Lisa Brachman
January 12, 2018 at 8:55 am
What a difference one person can make on so many lives. My thoughts are with you all.
Reply
RON & PAT NEWMAN
January 12, 2018 at 8:56 am
MAY GOD REST HIS SOUL . WE WILL MISS HIM.
Reply
Sue Lindsey
January 12, 2018 at 12:01 pm
Sherry and family…I am so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing…My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time….Keep the memories close…he will always be in your heart….God has gained a great man in his army of angels….keep the Faith, many prayers go out to you…
Reply
Tim and Laurie Andrus
January 12, 2018 at 5:10 pm
Sherry Rick and family- what a tremendous example your father has been. Tim and I have you all in our prayers for comfort and peace.
Reply
Leona & Jim McLaughlin
January 12, 2018 at 5:10 pm
Dearest Clara and Family, There are no words that we can find to bring you much comfort at this time. We hope that you might draw strength from the well of our love and prayers that are right there with you!!
Reply
Rhonda Solomon
January 12, 2018 at 6:29 pm
Rick an Mary~I’m So Very Sorry For your loss. Sending My Thoughts and Prayers and Thinking of You All With Love♡
Reply
John W.Hart
January 12, 2018 at 8:40 pm
Sorry for your loss Sherry and family.
Reply
Tom Young
January 13, 2018 at 12:53 pm
I’m so sorry, prayers for your family, Love you all.
Reply
Kim Sheldon
January 13, 2018 at 9:35 pm
Clara, Sherry & Mike, Rick & Mary, Dave & Karen & families,
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. The memories that Jack has left behind will live forever in the hearts of those who loved him. Smile along with me as we imagine the reunion between two best friends. RIP Jack. Tell dad hi and we love him.
Bryon & Kim Sheldon Fairhope, AL
Reply
Kim Dorothy Blagg
January 14, 2018 at 8:29 am
He was a rich man, in the way we all dream of riches…and in the way we all should. In this sense, he does take them with him and the world will be a sadder place.
Reply
Jerry and Judy Shumaker
January 14, 2018 at 1:30 pm
Clara and Family. Jerry and I were so sorry to learn that you lost Jack. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May your special memories bring you comfort in the coming days, weeks, and months. Take care.
Reply
Garry &Teresa Parrish
January 14, 2018 at 2:08 pm
Clara and family, I just heard today about Jack. We send our Deepest Sympathy. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers and God has his loving arms around you now and always.. remember all your memories of Jack cause no one can take them away. He will be saddly missed. Take care. Love you all.
Reply
Sandy Norris
January 14, 2018 at 7:28 pm
It has always been so nice see Jack and Clara at family celebrations. Lovely, people. It is always hard to say goodbye to the ones we love but your faith will get you through these times. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Reply
Terry L. Burris
January 14, 2018 at 7:45 pm
So sorry for your loss Dave and family. Belle and I will try to make either the early or later visitation on Monday. Maybe we can catch up on old times. Terry Burris
Reply
Jacque Jennings-Carter
January 15, 2018 at 12:34 am
Sherry and entire family, I am so sorry for your loss. It is so very difficult to lose a parent. Wishing each of you peace and comfort as you go through this difficult and painful time. Blessings to the entire family.
Reply
Chris & Lynne Kelsey
January 15, 2018 at 1:15 pm
Dear Sherry & Family,
We are sorry for your loss. Continued prayers for comfort and peace.
Reply
Matt and Glenda Ash
January 15, 2018 at 5:52 pm
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Reply
Terry & Char Bonnell
January 16, 2018 at 3:37 pm
Sherry & family,
We are so sorry for your loss. May the many memories of your dad help comfort.
With love and prayers,
Reply
Joyce Sheldon
January 18, 2018 at 7:51 pm
My love and deepest sympathy to Clara, Sherry & Mike, Dave & Karen,Rick &Mary and their families…our Life Long Friends! Over the years our families have shared our good times and bad. So many great memories! May you find comfort in the thought that those we love remain with us for love itself lives on. Jack was a GREAT friend to Dean as well as our entire family!! He’ll be greatly missed!!
Reply
Pam Fuller Martin
January 22, 2018 at 1:34 am
Clara and family am so sorry to hear about Jack I learned to late to attend. The last thing Jack said to me was when dad passed he told me how much he’d missed him. My prayers are with you all.
Reply
Leave a Condolence
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