Howard P. Wheelock

Howard P. Wheelock, 76, a native of Traverse City, died Saturday, October 20, 2018 at Munson Medical Center.

Howard was born December 05, 1941 to Arthur and Beatrice (McDermott) Wheelock in Traverse City and was raised on the family farm on Old Mission Peninsula. He married Elizabeth M. Kroupa on June 2, 1962.

Howard worked for DeBruyn Concrete early in his career and later for Traverse City Iron Works and TC Tool. After he retired, he enjoyed delivering for Cherryland Floral. He was a gifted woodworker, making furniture and various wood crafts for family and friends. Howard was a proud contributor of time and resources to the Traverse City Young Marines. He worked hard to provide a secure home for his wife and four children. His grandchildren and great grandchildren also meant the world to him. They remember his dedication to the family, his always cheerful attitude and his laughter. He was very social and enjoyed meeting other people which made him a natural as an usher and deacon and in various other roles in which he served for over 40 years at Faith Reformed Church.

A special thank you to The Villa at Traverse Point for the love and kindness they shared. Howard made many friends there and enjoyed playing bingo and the opportunity to always give the prizes to others.

Howard is survived by his mother, Beatrice Wheelock of Traverse City; his children, Karen Mang of Mancelona, Brian (Tina) Wheelock of Elk Rapids, Terry (Sandra) Wheelock of Williamsburg, Sherry (John) Steed of Buckley, 12 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. He was looking forward to his soon-to-arrive 5th great grandchild. Howard is also survived by his siblings, Warren (Kay) Wheelock of Traverse City and Don (Jean) Wheelock of Cedar. Howard was preceded in death by his father, Arthur, his wife of 45 years, Elizabeth; his sister Patricia Shumsky and his dear friend Carol Robinson.

Visitation for Howard will take place today, Tuesday, October 23 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A service celebrating Howard's life will be held at Faith Reformed Church at 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 24, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Randy Burgess will officiate. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

Howard wished to be remembered through memorial contributions to The Faith Reformed Church Benevolence Fund, 1139 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI 49684 or to the Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, 25200 Telegraph Rd, Ste. 100, Southfield, MI 48033