MICHAEL, Howard Cromwell

Howard Cromwell Michael of Farmington, N.M., died Tuesday, May 5, 2009, at Life Care Center of Farmington, N.M. As per Howard's wishes, there was no formal funeral. A family memorial service will be held in the near future. He was born Feb. 23, 1953, in Medota, Ill., to William and Joyce (Sibigtroth) Michael. Howard struck out on his own in his late teens, learned the drywall installation trade, moved to the West from Illinois where, following the urging of his free spirit, he worked in Nevada, Colorado and Texas before finally settling in Show Low. While Howie enjoyed his drywall trade, he was an avid fisherman and his work schedule often depended on when and where the fish were biting, much to the chagrin of some of his employers, often sometimes joining him. A very likeable man, Howie has left behind a host of family members and friends who will miss him very much. He lived his life on his own terms. He is survived by his father of Farmington, N.M.; brothers William (Debby) of Groveland, Ill., Wallace (Janet) of Farmington, Brian (Pla) of Hawai, Bradley (Beverly) of Farmington, N.M., and Thomas (Angela) of Decatur, Ill.; sister Laurie Foutz of Farmington, N.M., nieces Amy, Tera, Molly, Jovi, Emily, Megan, Lauren, Mary, Sarah, Amadaya and Rebecca; nephews Jesse, Joe, Sam, Bon, Travis, Elijah, Carl and Carter. He was preceded in death by his mother. White Mountain Independent 5/22/2009.