Howard Benedict Killarney, decorated veteran, and lifelong resident of the Niles community, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at the age of 101. Born on January 9, 1924, in Niles, Michigan, to the late Benedict and Geneva (Hodgson) Killarney, Howard dedicated his life to family and service.
Howard’s journey through life was shared with his beloved wife, the late Shirley (Evick) Killarney, with whom he explored the vast beauty of all 50 states and ventured abroad, creating a lifetime of memories. He enjoyed following the Chicago Cubs. His legacy lives on through his loving children, Susan (Richard) Oates, Patricia (Ronald) Hatcher, Michael (Beverly) Killarney, and Rebecca Killarney; his eight grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Howard was predeceased by his devoted siblings, Marie Long, Vincent Killarney, and Irene Griefer and infant great-grandchild Timothy Oates.
A proud Marine, Howard served his country with honor in World War II and the Korean Conflict, in the Second Marine Air Wing as an Airborne Radar Technician. Howard began his career following a family tradition of working for the Railroad. Upon returning to civilian life he began his career as a Tool & Die Engineer at Dodge – Reliant. He held leadership positions in the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, The American Legion and Boy Scouts of America. His commitment to community safety continued as an officer on the Niles Auxiliary Police Department, where he served with distinction. He was a long-standing member of St Mark Catholic Church serving as an Usher for many years. Howard’s steadfast presence earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him.
His grandchildren were the recipients of his boundless love and support. Howard was a fixture at school functions, proudly cheering them on and celebrating their achievements.
Howard’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. Yet, his spirit remains a guiding light, a reminder of the profound impact one life can have on so many. Howard Benedict Killarney’s story is one of love, service, and unwavering commitment. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life well-lived, a journey completed with grace and dignity.
Visitation for Howard will be on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 from 10:00am to 11:30am with a Funeral Service to be held at 11:30am at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main St. Niles, MI 49120. Burial will immediately follow at Silverbrook Cemetery, 1400 East Main St. Niles, MI 49120.
In lieu of flowers those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Howard have been asked to consider Lest We Forget or The Marine Corps Reserve Greater Berrien County Toys for Tots. Lest We Forget is dedicated to commemorating the contributions and sacrifices of Military Veterans through live reenactments and preservation of artifacts and education, 942 Sierra Drive, Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Services
Visitation
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 10:00AM – 11:30AM
Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main Street, Niles, MI 49120
Funeral Service
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 11:30AM – 12:30PM
Brown Funeral Home, 521 E. Main Stree,t Niles, MI 49120
Burial
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 12:30PM
Silverbrook Cemetery, 1400 E. Main St., Niles, MI 49120
Posted On: Friday, January 10, 2025 4:52 PM
