Obituary for JoAnne "Cookie" Howland

JoAnne “Cookie” Howland, of Portland, passed away on July 17, 2024 at the age of 81. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, JoAnne was devoted to her family and friends. She enjoyed her flower gardens and taking long walks. JoAnne was an avid volunteer- leading Senior Citizen chair exercises, teaching line dancing, and working numerous events at the Ionia Free Fair in the craft building. She was the PA announcer for the Antique Tractor Pulls and she was proud to drive her red tractor across the Mackinac Bridge. She was a member of the Odd Fellow Rebekka Lodge for over 60 years. JoAnne loved animals and owned and operated a pig farm for several years. On June 23, 1962, JoAnne married the love of her life, Robert Howland and they raised two children together. JoAnne will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Preceding JoAnne in death are her parents; brothers, George “Tom” (Betty) Backhurst and Allen “Louie” (Sandy) Fulkerson; and daughter-in-law, Teresa “Terri” Howland. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Howland; son, Ron Howland; daughter, Bonnie (Jim Muntean) Lundgren; grandchildren, Christine, Wendy, and Paul; several great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild on the way; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, September 7th at 2:00 p.m., at the VFW in Portland.  Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.