Age 75, went to be with the Lord on Saturday. Beloved husband of Claudette for 51 years. Loving father of Diana (Gregg) Hipple, Melissa (David) Place and Brenda (Mark) LaBerge. Cherished grandfather of Katy, Allison, Andrew, Michael, Sarah and Matthew. Dear brother of Robert (Jackie) Howell.

Mr. Howell, of Indian River, MI, formerly of Farmington Hills, was born and raised in Indiana. He received a bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering from Purdue University. Richard worked for National Steel Corporation for 35 years.

Mr. Howell was a very proud veteran of the U. S. Air Force during the Korean conflict and was stationed in Germany as a navigational communications expert. Richard served as an Elder for years at Ward Presbyterian Church in Livonia and remained active at United Methodist Church in Indian River where he retired in 1992. Mr. Howell was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Indian River Masonic Lodge. Richard was an avid fisherman and golfer.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 26th, 11:30 a.m. (with a luncheon following) at United Methodist Church on Eagle's Nest Road in Indian River, Michigan.

Donations can be made to the United Methodist Church, 3228 Gatewood St., P.O. Box 457, Indian River, MI 49749 or the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.

Arrangements entrusted to the Thayer-Rock Funeral Home, downtown Farmington.