Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Bachman Hebble Funeral Service

223 Bedford Rd N

Battle Creek, Michigan

Kelly Howard Obituary

Kelly Haze Howard Delton Kelly Haze Howard 58, of Delton passed away February 28, 2013 after a lengthy illness, with his loving family by his side. Born on January 4, 1955 in Battle Creek to Willie and Gola (Bowlin) Howard . He joined and served during the Vietnam Era in the Army over in Germany at the young age of 17 from 1972 thru 1975, graduating from St. Mary's High school in Colorado Springs Colorado in 1974. A lifelong resident of Battle Creek, he moved to Coldwater, Michigan where he worked at the Midwest Foundry. His first marriage to Sherry Howard (O'Connor) ended in 1979; however he remained close to those family members throughout his life. Kelly gave 29 years of government services to his Veteran Brothers', retiring from the VA medical Center in 2005 due to ill health. While employed Kelly fought many years for the rights of others ensuring fair and equal treatment to all he served, working as Union Stewart, Chief Stewart and eventually as President of AFGE Local 1629, retiring as Employee Relations Specialist the last 4 years of his career. Kelly lived for his family; he enjoyed fishing, hunting, collecting and sharpening knives. He played poker every Saturday night for the last 25+ years with his brothers of other mothers; Jim Bennett, George Bynum and Steve Willey. He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Pamela J. (Cheever) Howard, daughters; Belinda Andrews, Jacquieline (Justin) Goebel of Warsaw, Indiana, Chelsea (Andrew) Sears of Sterling Heights, MI. and Cortni Howard of Delton. Sisters Janice (Ted) Poniedzielski of Kentwood, MI., Anna Lee Asher of Keavy, Kentucky, brother Leighman (Mildred) Howard of Burnstadt, Kentucky. Step mother Beulah Howard, step brothers Charlie, William and Ron Fox all of Keavy, Kentucky.Seven grandchildren; Brooke, Kasey, Brittainy, Austin, Corah, Zachariah and Mason and one great grandson Benjamin. Several special nieces, nephews, numerous great nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Martha Stovall, Naoma Browning, Fern Dill and a brother Bill Henry Howard. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, 223 N. Bedford Rd. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Interment will follow, with honors at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Vietnam Veterans of America. Visit Kelly's web page at www.bachmanhebble.com.

Published by Battle Creek Enquirer on Mar. 3, 2013.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Kelly Howard

Not sure what to say?





My brother Bob and I were just talking about Kelley a few days ago. What a down to earth kind of guy he was. We both worked with him at the V.A.M.C. He was always in a good mood and it was easy to make him laugh. I was telling Bob about a party him and Pam had out at their house one time. Really don't remember the occasion (I think it was his birthday or Pam's). We had so much fun. He took me out in his backyard and taught me how to shoot a crossbow. I had so much fun with him that day. And I might add, he was as surprise as I was of how fast I caught on using it. I can only remember good things about Kelley. But like I have mention before it was his laugh I remember the most. Still think about you, Kelley. May you rest in peace.

dan clark

February 25, 2019

i knew kelley for 42 yrs .he wasnt my brother inlaw or cousin inlaw.he was truly my brother.he took me first time ever huntin and drivin.and when ever i needed help he was there,even when i havent seen him in few yrs.i love and miss you sooo much but i know i will see you again brother.

rick oconnor

March 22, 2013

There is not enough words that a person can put together to describe the type of Man, Husband, Father, Brother, or Friend that he was. He was married to the love of his life. Whenever he would talk about his girls his eyes would light up and he had joy in his smile. He was a friend to everybody. He always had a smile and a hug when he would greet you. He always had a positive way of thinking no matter what. He always thought about the other persons feelings before his own. We had so many good times together and we are blessed to have a lot of memories. Kelly, our Brother, we will miss you. Pam and girls, we love you and will keep in touch.

Jim Gifford

March 20, 2013

Kelly was a wonderful, kind, and sweet man. I remember him fondly and loved him very much. I will miss you uncle Kelly.

Tiffany Grau-Fay

March 20, 2013

I treasure every moment you spent in life with me. I hoped to have you longer,but it's not meant to be. Seems like you left so suddenly. I feel so lost and lonely, and I cry from missing you...We stand motionless, consumed in grief. Sorrow has arrived, with smiles thief. Our hearts are damaged, and scarred severely. We shall all miss you, much more than dearly. For having you in our lives, we've all been blessed. But now the time has arrived,
for you to rest. We promise to cherish,
our memories of you. You shall live in our minds, and all that we do. Love u Uncle Kelly...My heart goes out to all family and friends...

April Fox

March 20, 2013

Pam and Family,

I just found out today that Kelly passed. I loved his humor and the great advice he gave me. I will miss him dearly. I am sorry for your loss.

Sophie tilley

March 12, 2013

Pam and family i will miss kelly so much he help me alot out at the VA sorry for your loss i'll always remember kelly and you

Robert Clutter

March 6, 2013

You will always be in my heart and forever loved.

Brinda Bradford

March 6, 2013

Pam, I am truly saddened by Kelly's passing. After working with you both at the VA (in Med Admin, Rehab Medicine, and Laundry), I went on to the Post Office and retired in 2010. But I remember Kelly as being devoted to our veterans and to his fellow union workers. He was a credit to the union cause and always had a great smile and attitude. My prayers for you and your family and for someone who has been taken home too soon. God Bless.

Linda Miller

March 5, 2013

I had the pleasure and honor of working with Kelly for five years at Battle Creek VAMC. For much of that time, we sat on opposite sides of the table, he represented labor and I represented management. What struck me most about Kelly was his passion for serving his union members, and he did it with integrity, straight-forwardness, fairness, and a keen sense of humor. He helped shape me and others to be better managers and co-workers. I am very sad about his passing and very grateful to have known and worked with him.

Michael Tyllas

March 5, 2013

I worked very closely with Kelly at the Baattle Creek VA Medical Center. I was always a fair and honest person. Kelly will be missed. I have his family in prayer. So long Kelly.

Calvin Marshall

March 5, 2013

I am sorry to learn of Kelly's death. When I was Chief of Staff, he gave me good advice. My sympathies to his family.

Alan Sooho

March 5, 2013

We lost a great person in Kelly,many great memories,our thoughts and prayers are with you all. love you all

Jim and Thea Miller

March 5, 2013

In loving memory of a man taken too soon, R.I.P

Karen & Don Hoard

March 5, 2013

R.I.P........ WE LUV U MA-DADA!!!!!!!!

Jacquie Goebel

March 5, 2013

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Kelly. What a guiding star he was for us all. Now another star will shine brightly in the night sky. Pam and family - you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Becky Simpkins

March 5, 2013

So sorry to here about Kelly. Worked with him and Pam at the V.A. Hospital. I was telling my brother the one thing I remembered about Kelly was his laugh. Always thought he had a good one. It's been quite a long time since I have seen him, but what I do remember was us joking around and laughing a lot. Prayers go out to the family. R.I.P. my friend.

Dan Clark

March 5, 2013

I can say i was lucky to meet Kelly, he and his family were the only ones that treated me for me! My son, your great grandson, will miss you greatly, as we all will!

Kevin Mangold

March 5, 2013

Good Night Kelly,till we meet again.Pam, Girls and Family My Prayers and Thoughts are with you.Sorry for your Loss may the Memorys of Kelly keep you strong.
Love you All,
Tammie

Tammie Morrell

March 4, 2013

Im very saddened to hear of Kellys passing. I worked several years with Kelly and Pam, back in the day when we were all "young". It does not seem possible Kelly has went home. Kelly always had a handshake and smile to greet you. Kelly was a kind and caring family man. He loved his family and he cared deeply about our Veterens and his co-workes. Kelly will be deeply missed. Blessings and prayers to Pam, and Pam and Kellys family. Until we meet again. RIP FRIEND.

Joe Moss

March 4, 2013

Very sorry to hear about Kelly. He was a great guy and someone you could always count on. My thoughts go out to Pam and his family.

Sue Pope

March 4, 2013

Sorry to learn that Kelly's fight has ended, but Heaven was made the richer for his arrival. God bless and keep Pam and those who loved Kelly in this life, my thoughts and prayers go with you this week.

Sandy Fox

March 4, 2013

I'm so sorry to here that Kelly has left us. Pam my prayers are with you and the family. Kelly will be missed by all, as he had a way of touching you, getting you to see the better side of things no matter how hopeless it may seem. Just remember he is sitting up in Heaven watching over all of us with that warm smile that only he knew how to give.

Pat Thomas

March 4, 2013

Kelly, Peace and rest for you now after many years of helping VA employees get fair representation he or she deserves in times of trouble.
To Mrs. Pam Howard, May the Almighty comfort you with the thought that he was called and in a better place.
Manuel H. Moraleda, M.D.

Manuel Moraleda

March 4, 2013

So Sorry to hear of Kelly Howards passing. He was one of the good guys and a joy to be around. Will always remember him as a friend that was always there for anyone that needs help. May God Bless him and his family.

Ronniemay Pierce

March 4, 2013

I will miss you so much, my brother ! love you !!

Sooze Widmer

March 3, 2013

i am so sorry to learn of Kelly's death. He was a pleasure to work with at the VA and I know he will be very much missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers. His was a life well lived. Joyce Wilson (Dr. Kondapaneni's secretary)

Joyce Wilson

March 3, 2013

My heart broke when I read this, but all the fun memories with Kelly will keep me smiling. He will truly be missed. Remembering your family today.

Linda VanSyckle

March 3, 2013

I only met Kelly at birthday and Christmas parties for his grandchildren. Over the years got to know Belinda, Jacquie and her family very well. Prayers and thinking of your family.

Keith and Jane Miller

March 3, 2013

Kelly and I had very good times at the VA Together and also his Wife Pam. We are both Veterans and talk a lot. My prayers are with Pam and his Family.

David Conklin

March 3, 2013

I will miss Kelly for we worked together at the VA Hospital for over 25 Yrs. Prayers are with Pam and their Families.

David Conklin

March 3, 2013

My prayers to the family, I enjoyed my friendship with Kelly.

Anthony Prince

March 3, 2013

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Sue Goss

March 3, 2013

brandi foster

March 3, 2013

Showing 1 - 34 of 34 results

Make a Donation
in Kelly Howard's name

Memorial Events
for Kelly Howard

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Bachman Hebble Funeral Service

223 Bedford Rd N, Battle Creek, MI 49037

How to support Kelly's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Kelly Howard's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more