Howard Eugene Henderson

Born to E. Dwight and V. Lucille Henderson, Howard lived all his life in the Kalamazoo area. Educated in Kalamazoo Public Schools and MSU; he was married to his best friend and life long sweetheart, Ilah Reid. Howard loved the Lord with all his heart, serving as Elder, as well as Deacon at Fourth Reformed Church and presently worshiped at Martin Reformed. Family and community were his other priorities. He volunteered in many groups as his children grew including PTA, BSA, GSA, 4-H, Oshtemo Independent Business Association and enjoyed coaching for various sports. Howard served on many committees and held positions in both Oshtemo and Almena Township. He was a State Commissioner for over 15 years. He was employed at Eaton Corporation for 39 years, retiring as Supervisor of Material Planning and Service. After retirement, he joined his wife in disaster and volunteer work for Church World Service and Samaritans Purse. He was stricken with a deadly infection in 1999, surviving only because of God's grace and his own strong spirit. His health was forever damaged by the lifesaving surgeries and drugs. Frailty and discomfort were with him the rest of his days. He enjoyed boating, fishing, searching for mushrooms, sand dollars, Petoskey stones and anything elusive. Panama City Beach was his winter home for many years. His children were the joy of his life and they gave him "The most wonderful grandchildren God ever made and two great grandchildren who are perfect in every way." He is survived by his wife, Ilah; his daughter, Lori Pierce of Raleigh NC; son-in-law, Bill MacArthur, of Tucson AZ; five grandchildren, Kurt (Chrissy) Mitchell, Elyse (Zac) Green, Justin (Jessica), Lillian, John (Susie) MacArthur; five great grandchildren, Lucas, Aurelia Mitchell, Cameron, Ian and Abigale MacArthur. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Dwight, Donald and Roy; his beloved son and daughter, Dan Henderson and Julie MacArthur. No service is scheduled at this time. To Honor his life, please do an act of kindness or service for someone else. The family is being assisted by Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 129 S. Grand Street, PO Box 417, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 (269-679-5622).