Brian McKinnon Howard

Brian was born on February 1, 1953 in Midland, the son of Douglas and Dorothy "Gussie" (Black) Howard. He graduated from Midland High School in 1971 and attended Delta College. Brian moved to Traverse City in 1978 and soon became a fireman at the Milton Township Fire Department. Six years ago, Brian was promoted to Fire Chief of the Milton Township Fire Department. He enjoyed investigating fires, boating, and HUNTING! The woods were Brian’s second home during hunting season, but he also made plenty of time to spend with his wife, Tari (Green) Howard, whom he married on March 17, 2006. Brian was also a member of the Blue Collar Golf League.

Brian is survived by his wife, Theresa "Tari" Howard; children, Heather (Chris) Roggen and Aaron Howard; step-children, Anna (Shane) Steffens and Sarah Barre; step-grandson, Austin Steffens; siblings, Kevin (Diane) Howard, Margaret "Peggy" (Rick) Penny, Cameron (Barbara) Howard, and Timothy (Ruby) Howard; siblings-in-law, Sue Howard and Bill Murray; and many other close family members.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Gussie Howard; brother, John Howard; and sister, Dana Murray.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, Oct. 21, 2011 at 2:00 pm at New Hope Church. There will be visitation on Thursday, Oct. 20 from 5-8 pm at Covell Funeral Home in Elk Rapids. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Milton Township Fire Department.

Please share your condolences at www.CovellElkRapids.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home in Elk Rapids.