Joan Jane Howard (Van Malsen)

Joan Jane Howard ( Van Malsen) age 88, passed away on Wednesday November 1, 2023 and her husband Richard (Dick) Bert Howard age 88 joined her in eternal life on Monday October 30, 2023. They were married on January 21, 1956, and enjoyed over 67 years together. Joan was preceded in death by her parents and siblings in the Van Malsen family and Richard was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters. Richard and Joan will be lovingly remembered by their children Kimberly (Lloyd) Wilson, Valerie Howard, Steven (Fran) Howard, John (Dawn) Howard and Michael (Leigh) Howard; their grandchildren Jeffrey and Adam Wilson, Ryan (Michelle) McBride and Travis Howard, Ashleigh Milanowski, Brandon Howard; their great grandchildren Jordan, Shaun, Addilyn and Maci; Richard’s brother Bob (Lori) Howard; Richard’s sisters Sherry Bedore and Jeri (Phil) Dick; several nieces and nephews. Richard served his country in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957 achieving the rank of Private First Class. He worked for 36 years for Michigan Bell Telephone/Ameritech and served on the board of BellCom Credit Union for several years. Richard was a member of the YMCA for 59 years. Joan left her position at Michigan Bell where she met Richard and devoted her life to creating a loving home for her children. She managed all aspects of the household and was the stabilizing force for the family. Richard and Joan enjoyed golf for many years, they were also active members of the Grand Rapids Elk Lodge. They also liked to travel but most of all loved spending time with their family. Giving back to the community, Richard and Joan volunteered for the White Elephant Sale, through the YMCA, supporting Camp Manitoulin. Both were cancer survivors and were faithful supporters to the American Cancer Society. They were long time members of and contributors to St. James Catholic Church. Their family will receive visitors Friday December 1, 2023 at the funeral home beginning at 11:00 am. The Memorial Service celebrating the lives of both Richard and Joan will be held at 12 noon at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, 3525 Remembrance Rd NW. A special thank you to Dr. Kirk Agerson MD/MDVIP and Staff, Fox Rehabilitation and Emmanuel Hospice for their care and compassion. Memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Hospice, West Michigan Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society.

Tributes

Joan Jane Howard (Van Malsen)

May 5, 1935 - November 1, 2023