Jack Howrigon

Jack Dale Howrigon, age 88, 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 68th 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's 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.