Howard J. Conlin's Obituary
Howard J. Conlin died peacefully at Marwood Nursing and Rehab in Port Huron, Mich., one week after the death of his beloved wife, Elaine.
Mr. Conlin was an active member of the St. Clair community since 1965 when he purchased Blue Water Dispatch and moved his family to St. Clair. He was involved in many local business endeavors, including St. Clair Highlands, Golfside Development and Central Excavating. He belonged to the St. Clair Investment Club, American Legion, St. Clair Country Club and worked until his late 80’s. A friend and mentor to many, Howard loved having coffee with “The Coffee Club” every morning.
Born May 14, 1921, to Earl and Kathryn Conlin in Port Huron, MI, Mr. Conlin graduated from Port Huron High School (’39) and attended Port Huron Junior College and the University of Michigan. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943. A decorated veteran, he received an honorable discharge in 1946.
Mr. Conlin married his wife, Elaine, on November 28, 1946, and settled in St. Clair Shores. Prior to Blue Water Dispatch, he was a long-term employee of Earl C. Smith Trucking Company where he served as vice president and president.
Mr. Conlin was active in youth hockey throughout his life and served as president of the St. Clair Shores Hockey Association. He co-owned a junior hockey team and was an advocate for Michigan youth getting hockey scholarships to college. After moving to St. Clair, he was involved in the International Silver Stick Hockey Tournament in Port Huron.
Mr. Conlin and his wife enjoyed travelling through the United States and Europe. They were married for 67 years and died within one week of each other.
Mr. Conlin’s sister Margaret Traynor and brother Donald Conlin precede him in death. He is survived by his sister Kathryn Conlin, daughter Judith A. Silverman (David) and son Howard James Conlin II, daughter-in-law Tracy Conlin, 4 grandchildren: John Uznis (Christine), Elizabeth Johnson (Ken), Jason Conlin and Scott Conlin, and 6 great grandchildren.
Memorial gatherings will take place at 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Fri., March 4, at Young Funeral Home in China Township. A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 5, at the funeral home with visitation one-hour prior.
Please send donations care of the St. Clair Little League 4113 Blue River Rd, St. Clair, MI 48079. It is a 501(c)(3). Or, donate to the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation, www.parkinsonsmi.org.
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