Howland, Raymond M.

Surrounded by love, Raymond M. Howland, 83, of Galesburg, Ill., passed away peacefully on April 14, 2014 at 1:22 p.m. at the Galesburg Cottage Hospital with his wife of 63 years by his side.

Born September 27, 1930 to John M. and Hazel (Harshbarger) Howland, he remained a lifelong resident of Galesburg, Ill., graduating from Galesburg High School in 1948. Shortly thereafter he met and married the love of his life, Marcellene Hulstedt in Woodhull, Ill., on October 7, 1950. During this time he also served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1949-50 and 1951-53 during the Korean War and had said that if not for the love of his wife and children he would have happily made it his career.

He is survived by three of his four wonderful children, David (and Christine) Howland of East Galesburg, John “Jack” (and Marilla) Howland of Colville, Wash., and Charles (and Laura) Howland of Galesburg; as well as his dear sister, Alpha-Gay (and Alfred) Hayden of Galesburg. He was blessed with the joys of 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Laid to rest before him was his only daughter, Sherry Kirkpatrick; his brother, J.R. (Dick); and his sister, Kathy.

Raymond gave 43 years as a carman for the Burlington-Northern Railroad, retiring in 1991 and continuing his loyal support of the Union throughout his life. He is remembered for his dedication to his own and many other children during the eight years he served as Scout Master for Troop 262 as well as his 50+ years spent polishing his hobby as an avid bowler. He was also a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, the Ralph M. Noble American Legion Post #285 and a founding board member of the Galesburg Railroad Museum. Whether giving to career or hobby, as a husband or for his family, he gave all he had and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Friday April 18, 2014 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel. Funeral services will be at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel as well at 10 a.m. Saturday with Rev. Dr. Tom Larsen officiating. Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the Ralph M. Noble American Legion Post #285. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church or Galesburg Railroad Museum. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.

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