Gene E. Howard died Wednesday, December 13, 2017 after a brief illness. He was born to Edna and Ernie Howard on March 3, 1943 in Harbor Beach, Michigan. Gene proudly served in the Navy for 23 years and worked for Metro Machine Corp for 18 years. He loved his music, playing guitar and karaoke and was an avid sportsman and teacher.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years Josette; children, Gabby (David), Holly, Shannon (Larry), Jonny (Amy), Cecile (Chip), Jack (Gina) and Christina; grandchildren, Alisha, Jennifer, Bradley, Sara, Carly, Sophia, Natalie, and Rowan; brother, Dean (Jerilyn); sisters Carol and Judith; and his furry boy, Max.

He was a die-hard Detroit Lions fan, hoping to see them in the Super Bowl one day. He loved grilling and entertaining around the pool.

The family will receive friends from 2 – 3 PM Sunday, December 17 at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home followed by a service beginning at 3 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the local Humane Society or the Veterans Administration.