Richard Arthur Howell

Richard Arthur Howell, age 79, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, in Howell, Michigan. Born on June 11, 1946, in Saginaw, Michigan, Richard lived a full and meaningful life centered on family, service, and simple joys.

Richard was the son of the late Robert and Lois Howell. He grew up with a strong sense of integrity, a quality that guided him throughout his distinguished career as a Special Agent with the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division in downtown Detroit. For over 30 years, he dedicated himself to his work with steadfast commitment before retiring in 2003.

On February 14, 1975, Richard married the love of his life, Eileen O’Brien. The two met through friends, and Richard graciously adopted Stephen and Amy in 1976, changing the trajectory of their lives forever. Together, they shared 35 wonderful years filled with laughter, partnership, and even a little adventure with a cherished trip to Ireland in 2001 that Richard would fondly recall for the rest of his life. Their marriage remained a source of joy and strength until Eileen’s passing on August 26, 2010.

Above all, Richard treasured his family. He is survived by his children, Stephen (Amy) Howell and Amy (Steven) Rauser; and his beloved grandchildren, Abigail Rauser, Madeline Rauser, and Caitlin Howell, each of whom brought immense pride and happiness to his days. He also leaves behind his siblings—Janess Adams, Brad Howell, and Jon (Peggy) Howell—along with nieces and nephews Erik (Mary) Adams, Jill (Adam) Bradway, Kallie (Sho) Suzuki, and Kyle Howell, as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews.

In retirement, Richard embraced the activities that brought him joy and kept his spirit active. He loved golfing, taking long walks, and mowing the lawn, often followed by time spent doing crossword puzzles or reading a good crime novel. He was a devoted sports fan and avid Michigan State fan (especially when it came to basketball), and he rarely missed a good game. He loved driving his red Corvette on sunny days, listening to the Beach Boys, and, most of all, spending time with his grandchildren (and grand dogs), who were the highlight of his later years.

Richard’s legacy lies in his generosity and his dry sense of humor, which has carried over into each of his family member’s lives in one way or another.

A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152. Richard’s family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm, and again on Saturday from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. Richard was a huge animal-lover, so those desiring may consider contributions in his memory to the Michigan Humane Society or Detroit Pit Crew dog rescue.