Submitted by: Dan Rich

Gerald Peter Howell

June 23, 1918 -- June 7, 2005

South Bend Tribune 6-9-2005

Gerald Peter "Pete" Howell, 86, residing on South Ironwood Drive, formerly of East Irvington Street, South Bend, passed away at 12:55 a.m. Tuesday, June 7, 2005, in St. Paul's Healthcare Center. He was born June 23, 1918, in North Liberty, IN, as the son of James P. and Mabel (Surface) Howell, and had remained a lifelong resident of St. Joseph County. On May 2, 1941, in Lakeville Christian Church, Lakeville, IN, he married Frances N. Barkley. He is survived by his loving wife, Frances, of more than 64 years. Also surviving are two sons, Gregory Peter (Katherine) Howell of Cassopolis, MI, and Kevin Barkley Howell of South Bend; and two grandsons, Ryan Peter (Kristy) Howell of Sayville, NY, and Erik John Howell of Lafayette, IN. Pete is also survived by his twin sister, Emogene Woodcox of South Bend, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Dorothy Prescott; and two brothers, Kenneth and Richard Howell. Mr. and Mrs. Howell retired in 1980 as owners of Howell's Athletic Lettering following 25 years of service. He was a member of First Christian Church of South Bend where he was a Past Elder, and was former president of the Fellowship Class and the XYZ Group (Xtra Years of Zest) at the church. Pete and Frances were former longtime members of Lakeville Christian Church. He served his country in the United States Army during World War II. The Howell family farm was located on the land where Potato Creek State Park is located, and Mr. Howell was instrumental in supplying the park with vital information regarding the park's history.

Services will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 11, in First Christian Church, 1101 E. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend. Rev. Owen Cayton, pastor, will officiate. Graveside services and burial will follow at Southlawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday in the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 South Michigan Street, South Bend, and one hour prior to services Saturday in the church. Contributions in memory of Gerald P. "Pete" Howell may be made to First Christian Church.