Howard R. Misner

The world will laugh a little less with the passing of Howard R. Misner, on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, while spending time up north. Lovingly known as “Hod” by his many friends, he was born on August 15, 1940, in Otsego, to Neil and Virginia (Bushee) Misner. His life, marked by dedication to family, community, and a passion for service, leaves a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Howard graduated from Otsego High School in 1958 and attended Michigan College of Mining and Technology and Tri State University in Angola. In 1962, Howard married Melissa Wing at the First Congregational Church in Otsego. Together, they embarked on a shared adventure, moving first to Detroit, then to Rochester, where they established their home for many years before returning to the Otsego area in 2019. Their partnership was a cornerstone of Howard's life, built on love, respect, and mutual support.

Professionally, Howard dedicated over three decades to Ford Motor Company as a mechanical engineer, serving from 1963 until his retirement in 1995. Demonstrating a lifelong enthusiasm for innovation and problem-solving, he later served as a consultant for Cadillac Products for an additional ten years. Howard touched countless lives not only through his technical expertise but also through his warmth and willingness to help others. After his time at Cadillac Products, he continued to make an impact, working as a substitute math teacher and tutor in the Romeo area for several years. His commitment to nurturing young minds was unwavering.

Howard brought the same sense of devotion he exhibited professionally into his extracurricular interests and community involvement. He found joy in woodworking, caring for others, and spending restful moments camping and at his cherished cabin in the Upper Peninsula. A man of deep faith, Howard's relationship with the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Rochester spanned more than five decades. Throughout those years, he served in many capacities, always ready to lead or assist wherever the need was greatest.

Howard's life was marked, above all, by family and friendships that he nurtured with great care. He is survived by his beloved wife Melissa; daughters Jody (Todd) Chwatun and Jennifer (Wade) Dunlap; grandchildren Adam (Emma Brzezinski) Dunlap and Julia Chwatun; brother-in-law Gary Shook and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother Jim (Kathy) Misner and his sister Sondra Shook.

According to his wishes cremation has taken place. Friends may visit with Howard’s family starting at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego, until the time of the memorial service at 11:00 A.M., with Penny Lowe officiating.

Howard’s steadfast kindness, quiet strength, and tireless commitment to helping others will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. His was a life well lived, enriched by genuine connection, joyful service, and the enduring love of family and friends.

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!” – Hunter S. Thompson.

Contributions in memory of Howard may be directed to the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Rochester, Michigan or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.