Lawrence “Larry” Lionel Howarth
November 17, 1944 – October 4, 2025
Lawrence “Larry” Lionel Howarth, 80, passed away on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at home in Benton Harbor, Michigan.
Larry was born on November 17, 1944 in Benton Harbor, Michigan to the late Ernest J. Howarth and Alice Marie (Durfee) Howarth.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife and helpmate, Sheila (Hall) Howarth; children, Kim (Gary) Rochefort, Traci Smith, Chris Howarth, Heather Howarth, and Jim (Ashley) Howarth; special granddaughter, Kelsey (Jake) Kline; 10 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren, and brother, Jim (Sharron) Howarth.
Larry lived much of his life “seeing the country and getting paid for it” as an over the road truck driver. He was proud to say that he drove a million accident-free miles and another million that weren’t on the log books.
You always knew where you stood with Larry, he was unapologetically himself and left a lasting impression with everyone he met. He had a dry, sarcastic sense of humor and was always good for a story and a laugh. He was a bit gruff, but under the prickly exterior, he had a good heart and had such a soft spot for his grandkids. He could often be found tough love coaching a grandson or two through important life lessons, like how to drive a tractor or plow truck, the proper way to mow a lawn, or how to choose and use the right tools for the task at hand. He enjoyed tinkering around fixing things, especially if he could use a toggle switch and a tie down strap. Larry was a collector of all things, especially old rusty things that go. He loved tractors, old country music, buttermilk, and sneaking in a cigarette out in his shed.
Larry had fond memories of breaking and training horses in his younger days, in fact, some of his earliest memories were of times when his parents would put him on horseback to keep him out of trouble while they worked outside. He was so excited to be able to share these memories and his knowledge of horses with his grandson.
He wasn’t one to share sappy sentiments or big bear hugs, but there is no doubt that he loved his family and would have taken such comfort in knowing that all five of his children were with him as he took his final breath.
Larry’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family until the day they join him in heaven.
In keeping with Lawrence’s wishes, there will be no services held at this time.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.
Posted On: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 4:27 AM
