Paul Frances Howell, 63, of Bronson, passed away Saturday, January 22, 2022 at ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital, with his daughter at his side.
No services will be held at this time. Interment will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, section22, lot 54.
Arrangements are being cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home.
Paul was born December 8, 1958 in Branch County, MI to Victor Dean & Mary Susan (Myers) Howell. He grew up in Bronson dodging snakes on Rocky Island, rock piles in the field and running through the woods. One time, nearly running into a five foot spider web. He spent much of his youth climbing trees and drilling holes in them. He got in trouble for crossing the stream with his brother Tim. Paul, Tim, and his sister Vicky would care for their dogs Sandy and Cuddles.
Paul was a paperboy in Coldwater and mowed lawns in his youth. At age 12, he moved into his best friend’s home and felt accepted by the Herlan-Smith family
Paul joined the army at age 16 in the delayed entry program. He left shortly after and got emancipated at 17. When he married Melinda Johnson, he accepted a stepson James Fenningsdorf. Melinda and Paul begot Amber Lee Howell.
He later married Susan Black (Houck). Once he knew they were expecting Elizabeth Howell, he went back into the service. Paul had reached rank of Sergeant. Paul and Susan had a second daughter Brittni Howell, who passed shortly after birth. This marriage ended in 1992 and divorce was finalized later.
From 1992, until the very end, his world revolved around his daughter, Elizabeth. I was his world, he was my rock.
Paul worked at a wide variety of factories around southern Michigan. His favorite job was as a pressman for the Sturgis Journal. He retired early in 2003. Paul was an avid craftsman who loved woodworking and crafting with metal. He also enjoyed building, fixing, and programming computers. He was fascinated by lathes. He spent hours playing Tomb Raider, Warcraft and Chess. Paul and Elizabeth even built a CNC plotter from scratch.
He was a loving man and would push away when he felt hurt or protective. But, if you had shown up on the door step he would never turn you away. Paul was not the type to reach out. He always preached to look out for number one.
Paul is survived by his daughters Elizabeth Lee Howell, Amber Lee Howell; sister Vicky (Russ) Streeter, nieces Sonya Streeter and Nichole Streeter, Sheri Streeter, Melissa a Lavoy; and former wives Melinda Johnson and Susan Black.
He was preceded in death by his daughter Brittni Lee Howell; stepson James Fenningsdorf; brothers Tim Howell and Paul Michael Howell.
Memorials may be directed to the family to help with expenses. www.dutcherfh.com.
Comments