Howard E. Blair, 93, of North 15th Street, Niles died at 5 a.m. Sunday, May 23, 2010 at his home of natural causes.

He was born Feb. 14, 1917 in Jackson, Mich. to Edwards and Isa (Letz) Blair, and had lived in this area most of his life. He was first employed in the former local dairies of Niles Creamery, Exner’s Dairy and Saint Joseph Valley Creamery. He went on to work for 20 years in Garden City Fan, where he retired.

As a young man, Howard bowled on area leagues. He always enjoyed camping with his friends at the Nub Lake campground, but he is best remembered as a father who enjoyed his children, especially helping them with outdoor winter activities.

On Aug. 18, 1936 in South Bend, he married the former Gladys Margaret Hoover, who preceded him in death on Feb. 23, 1999. He was also preceded in death by their grandson, James Hocker II, on March 21, 2006; a great-granddaughter, Isa Hocker, on Jan. 30, 1994; and Howard’s brother, Robert Blair.

Surviving family includes their children, Jerry (Kathy) Blair and Jo Ann Eckler, all of Niles; grandchildren, Linda Hocker, Terry Wirick, Gail Mervine and Joseph Jasper; five great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Ellen (Robert) Blair, of Lake City, Mich.; and his aunt, Mae Crowder, of Manton, Mich.

They are all especially appreciative of the care given during his final illness by granddaughter Linda and by hospice, and for the comfort of Howard’s dog, Wilbur.

The family of Howard Blair will be gathering privately at his house for a special time to share memories and honor his life. No public events will be offered.
Arrangements were made at Halbritter Funeral Home, Niles.