Howard Duane Berry

Howard Duane Berry (Howard was known to his paternal relatives as "Brud," while his maternal relatives referred to him as "Willie), age 93, of Horton, Michigan, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on October 17, 1932, in Jackson, Michigan, the son of the late Howard A. and Helen (Roberts) Berry.
Howard is survived by his devoted wife Ila Gene Berry (Owens), of 73 years; daughters Jean Logan of Jackson, Vicky Owen of Jackson, Tammie Berry of Grand Haven, and Cindy (Gordon) Chapman of Norton Shore; ten grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; one sister Linda Berry of Jackson; many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in passing by his parents Howard and Helen (Roberts) Berry; sisters Josephine (George) LaFollette and Betty (Ken) Miller; two brothers Eugene (Arlene) Berry and Jack Berry; and grandchild Travis Foos.
A proud U.S. Army and National Guard Veteran, he worked as a screw machine operator and milk hauler, responsible for transporting milk cans from farms to processing facilities. Additionally, he performed tree care work in his personal time. He worked in the hammer shop and retired from Clark Equipment. After retiring, he owned and operated Try Automatics in Hanover. He was an avid dancer, with a particular passion for square dancing and, most of all, his polka dancing. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, camping, and boating. He found great pleasure in observing wildlife from his porch, including birds, deer, squirrels, and chipmunks throughout the day.
During deer season, a common saying around the house was "The Pontiac is out of the garage," especially when a family member had brought down a deer that was hanging in his garage. He valued spending time with his family and was always in good spirits. His presence had a positive impact on those around him. He enjoyed sharing stories and was genuinely friendly to everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and cared for him. A special thank you to Chuck Curry, Kitty Jonas, and Joyce Kesterson. We sincerely appreciate your thoughtfulness and kindness. In accordance with his wishes, he has been cremated.
A celebration of life to honor him will be held at the Spring Arbor Church of the Nazarene (8200 King Road, Spring Arbor) on Saturday, January 31, 2026, beginning at 12 P.M. Contributions in Howard's memory may be made to Spring Arbor Church of the Nazarene. Please visit www.hamptonfuneralhomes.com sign the guestbook and/or send a condolence to the family.
Hampton Funeral Home-Jackson
517-315-4333