Howard William Holton

Howard William Holton passed away in the early hours of September 21, 2019 at Samaritas, Williamsburg, Michigan. He was 95 years old. Born January 5, 1924 in Detroit, Howard was a lifetime resident of Michigan, having lived, married and raised his seven children there. He was a graduate of Makenzie High School in Detroit. He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Clarice Ella (Loranger) Holton, and his son, Paul Carey Holton. He is survived by six children: Daniel (Sharon), Ruth Ann Ventura (Dave), Mark (Cathy), Mary, Thomas (Grant) and James (Dana); also 20 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. He was one of the dwindling number of special men having served and survived World War Two. He was with a U. S. Army Engineering support Battalion during the invasion of France, and was part of the U.S. occupational force in Japan at the war’s conclusion. Upon his return to Michigan, he and Clarice bought a lot in Garden City, and there, built his first little house, adding to it as his family grew. He later built a second home on Lake Shannon, Fenton. After retirement he and Clarice spent winters in Venice, Florida and summers in Boyne City. Some years later Clarice developed Alzheimer’s, so they relocated to Howell, Michigan, where he remained until his beloved wife’s passing in 2007. They were members of the First Presbyterian Church of Howell. He went to work for Detroit Edison after the war, and stayed with them until his retirement in 1985. He started as an apprentice in the overhead lines division, becoming a journeyman lineman, and later moved into management in the departments of training and safety. He wrote the procedural manual for linemen which is still in use today. Howard was Hollywood handsome, a voracious reader, amateur architect, itinerate homebuilder, self-taught Bible scholar, and an excellent shade tree mechanic. He will be remembered for his faith, good humour and positive outlook on life. Committal service and interment on Friday, September 27, 2019 at Oakhill Cemetery, 255 South Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heartland Hospice.