Lawrence "Gator" Howard

Lawrence “Gator” Howard, went to be the Lord on September 6, 2025.

As the name Gator implies, this was one tough guy! Born to a Seminole ranching family in the everglades of Florida, Lawrence Randolph Howard grew up wrangling cattle and learning not only to work with his hands but with an astute and keen mind. The thrill of alligator hunting in his teen years landed him his respected nick name.

This sense of adventure and a call to duty led him to enlist in the U. S. Army. He served from 1975-1985, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He was a 100% disabled veteran, the result of his service in Germany. Gator’s sense of honor and love of his country led him to continue to serve veterans, friends and neighbors throughout his life.

Following the military, Gator bought a semi-truck and hit the open road for over ten years, traveling all over the country before settling down in Mio.

After serving in the military and spending many years on the road, Gator finally met Jeanie, his soul mate, and woman who would complete his life. Having met on the internet, many were leery of this newfound love. It didn’t take long, however, to find that the seemingly rough exterior held a kind and caring interior and that Jeanie and Gator were made for each other. They married on a sunny Aug 26, 2017, and began a whole new adventure for the two. Whether sky diving, riding their Harley Trike or camping time in their 5th wheel, they were making up for lost time and gaining life-long friends along the way.

He was a person who could do just about anything, except maybe brain surgery. A skilled welder, having welded some of the most dangerous structures at Florida’s Disney World, hanging upside down from great heights. A furniture maker and wood carver, he had a creative side and appreciated quality and a job well done. He could disassemble machinery and put them back together with ease.

With his many talents, he also enjoyed hunting, fishing and cooking. His wood smoker was frequently fired up to serve some delectable cuisine to a garage filled with friends. No one ever left these gatherings empty handed, as all took cartons of purposely abundant leftovers home to enjoy later.

One thing that was clear with Gator was that he cared for others and offered his service wherever he could. From cutting down trees, to repairing motors, to keeping the numerous neighbors’ driveways clear of snow, Gator’s selfless sense of service never wavered.

Gator was the real deal, and you know what you got. A professed Christian, he now has the peace and privilege to be with Christ. For the rest of us the world is a lesser place, and we will miss him. Rest in peace Gator.

A memorial service will take place 11:00 AM Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the Gaylord E-Free Church, where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:00 AM. Pastor Scott Distler will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight, PO Box 98, Gowen, MI 49326; or online at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/veteran-sponsor. You are invited to share your memories and messages with the family on his guestbook at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com