Minnie May Howes, 98, of Grand Rapids and formerly of East Jordan, died Tuesday, June 30, 2020, in Grand Rapids.
She was born on October 30, 1921, in Ellsworth, Michigan, the daughter of George and Marie (Poppe) Nelson. She grew up in East Jordan, graduated from East Jordan High School in 1939 and graduated from Louis Chapin Business School in Traverse City in 1940.
She married Alfred Kenneth Howes on July 11, 1942, in Norfolk, Virginia. They lived in Battle Creek for a couple of years and then moved to Grand Rapids. They lived in Grand Rapids for 38 years.
Minnie had worked as an office manager for the Plainfield Department Store for 29 years and retired in 1994. Alfred preceded her in death on September 19, 2007, after 65 years of marriage.
She was a member of the Grand Rapids Archery Club and the Chippewa Archery Club of Grand Rapids.
She enjoyed collecting owl figurines as well as salt & pepper shakers. Minnie had a great sense of humor.
Minnie is survived by a daughter, Sandra Purvis of Traverse City; a son, Steven Howes of Lowell; eight grandchildren; many great grandchildren; and many great great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Susan Damuth; two brothers; and three sisters.
To her wishes, cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will be held at Lakeside Cemetery, East Jordan.
Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601-7633. The family was served by the Penzien Funeral Homes in East Jordan.
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