Howard Shears

1929 - 2023

Howard D. Shears, age 93, of Nunica passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at Grand Pines Assisted Living Community. He was born February 26, 1929, in Muskegon to Charles and Vernie (Porter) Shears and graduated from Grand Haven High School. He married Evelyn Stark on July 12, 1950.

Howard served his country in the U.S. Air Force, learning skills as a mechanic that were the foundation of his career. He worked for Dick's All-Car and later for Haven Motor, before operating the Citgo gas station in Spring Lake in the mid-1970s. He then served as a mechanic for Spring Lake Public Schools, maintaining the bus fleet until retiring in 1994.

He was a member of St. Luke Lutheran Church for seven decades, serving in many offices and volunteer roles. He was a talented handyman who could build or fix anything. He enjoyed carpentry, gardening, and time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Evelyn; five children: Eva, Sharon (Lance) Russell, Bonnie Shears, Dean (Karen) Shears, and Toni Shears; four grandchildren: Kelli (Steve) VanZweden, Joel (Kayla) Gronevelt, Christina (Todd) Black, and Michael (Jubalee) Russell; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Agnes Metzgar and Donald (Glo) Shears. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Harriet Hamblin, Francis Sheffield and Mildred Thompson, and brothers Charles Lewis and Jack.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Nunica. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St. Spring Lake, MI 49456 and one hour prior to the service at church. A private interment will take place in Nunica Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in memory of Howard may be given to St. Luke Lutheran Church, Parkinson Foundation or Hospice of North Ottawa Community. Please sign the family's online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.