Gary Howe died Tuesday, Dec. 19, at his home. He was 70.

Gary was born Oct. 8, 1953, in Cortland, NY, to Robert “Bob” and Barbara (Griffin) Howe. Gary’s family moved quite a bit when he was younger. They lived in South Haven, Midland, Alexandria, Va., Zurich, Switzerland, and finally back to Midland, where he was in the first graduating class of Henry Herbert Dow High School in 1971.

Gary went to Ferris State College (University), majoring in pharmaceuticals, and graduated in 1976 and began his career as a pharmacist. He later owned his own pharmacy in Cedarville, Mich., prior to moving to Kalamazoo, in the late 1980s. He then continued his career at Value Drugs, serving the community in South Haven and Allegan.

This was where he met and fell in love with Brenda. They later wed on Oct. 2, 1993 and celebrated their union with friends and family in a fun Star Trek-themed reception. Gary was full of life with a great sense of humor; he enjoyed watching movies, playing video games, bowling with Brenda, and was an avid Star Trek fan.

Besides his wife, Gary is survived by daughters Nancy, Heidi (Dan), and Brixie (Ron); grandchildren Dan (Megan), Michael (Raquel), Jasmine, Katlyn (Mark), RJ (Gabby), Brandon, and Paul; as well as 10 great-grandchildren; brothers Bill of Sterling Heights, and David (Thresa) of Midland; nieces and nephews Nathan, Jennifer, Derek, and Jessica.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Cindy (Mapes) Howe; and niece, Patrice Howe.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In honor of Gary and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Al-Van Humane Society.