Obituary of David Howell

David Lee Howell, 81, of Niles, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2020, at Riveridge Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center. He was born to the late Russell and Virginia (Kelly) Howell on December 2, 1938 in Battle Creek, Michigan. He served his country proudly during the Vietnam War as a Staff Sargent in the United States Air Force. Upon being discharged from the military, David returned to Michigan where he began his career as a heating & cooling technician. He worked for the Niles Public School System for over 20 years before retiring. David loved to fish as was a member of the Red Bud Bass Masters. He also loved model railroading and his need for speed led him to be an avid spectator of drag racing. David attended First Church of Christ in Niles for many years. His family will greatly miss his sense of humor and the smiles he always put on their face. He is preceded in passing by his wife, Katherine Howell, his parents, and a daughter, Shannon Phillips. David is survived by his children, Mark Howell of Texas, Mike Howell of Kentucky, Stephanie (James) Eskut of Kansas, Jeffrey Yeomans of Michigan, Jason (Darla) Yeomans of Michigan, and Melissa Howell of Texas. He also leaves to cherish his memories two grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and his brother, Allen (Sandy) Booth of Sherwood, Michigan. Due to the current, unprecedented guidelines limiting public gatherings because of the COVID-19 virus, a celebration of David’s life will be held in the near future and he will be laid to rest with Full Military Honors at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of David have been asked to consider The Humane Society of Southwest Michigan, 5400 S Niles Rd, St Joseph, MI 49085. Memories of David may be shared with his family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Niles.