Howard Donal Klotz

Howard Donal Klotz, 72, of St. Joseph passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at Spectrum Health Lakeland. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel. Howard was born in Fremont, MI on November 28, 1948 to the late Hilbert and Aletha (Bayle) Klotz. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1966 and continued his education by attending Ferris State University where he earned a degree in architecture. Upon graduation, Howard joined the United States Navy as an E4 Serviceman. He served as a Seabee in the mobile construction battalion in Okinawa, Guam and Vietnam. He was honorably discharged on April 5, 1972. Upon return from the service, Howard opened Klotz Woodworking in St. Joseph. On March 5, 1984, Howard married the love of his life, Cheri Milmine, and spent two-days shy of 38 years together raising two amazing children and enjoying their five grandchildren. While at Klotz Woodworking, Howard gained a partner in Jim Woodfin and the two started Great Lakes Stair and Case Company in Bridgman, retiring from there in 2014. After retiring, Howard spent his time with his loving family and building rocking horses for his grandchildren as they were born. For those who have the love of Hotrods, you will always remember the fun Howard had building his hotrod and driving it. He enjoyed traveling to many car shows over the years with a group of his hotrodder friends. Howard was proud of being a board member for the Support Our Troops Festival in Baroda for many years raising money for several veteran organizations. He organized the car show and had fun designing and making all the games for the kid’s carnival. Howard is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Cheri (Milmine) Klotz; daughter, Jessica (Adam) Anderson; son, Shawn Johnson; grandsons, William Anderson, Samuel Anderson, Charles Anderson, and Kolby Johnson; granddaughter, Micah Johnson; many nieces and nephews; brother, Scott (Kim) Klotz; sisters, Cheryl (Tom) Butcher and Colleen Klotz; and sister-in-law, Charlene Klotz. Howard was preceded in death by both his parents; and brothers, Hilbert, Jr. and Alvon Klotz. Howard will be deeply missed by all his family and friends. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Lest We Forget, Lew Burchard, LWF Finance Officer, 4144 Condo #33 Ridge Road, Stevensville, MI 49127. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.