Howard J. Blasen, a long time resident of St. Johns, Michigan, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on March 20, 2021 after having been diagnosed with cancer last December. He was 96 years old.

Howard was born in Beal City, Michigan on September 22, 1924, the son of Herman Blasen and Henrietta Voisin Blasen. He was a decorated military veteran who valiantly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. When he returned home from war he began his career in materials handling with Motor Wheel in Lansing and enjoyed farming. On December 29, 1962 he married Anna (Henry) Smith in St. Johns, where they have made their home and are long time members of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Howard loved playing cards, traveling, watching sports of all kinds, and most of all, enjoyed being with family and watching his large crew of grandchildren grow up around him.

In addition to Anna, his beloved wife of over fifty-eight years, he is survived by children, Gary (Marsha) Blasen, Jan (Derek) Stotler, Jim (Jamie) Smith, Judy (Lee) VanCamp, Jane (Ben) Austin, Jerry (Colleen) Smith; sixteen grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren, and a great great grandson. Also surviving are his sister, Irene Smith, and many nieces, nephews and dear friends who join his family in giving thanks to God for his life among them.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Clarence (Theresa) Blasen, Raymond (Lillian) Blasen, Joseph Blasen, and Bob (June) Blasen.

Visitation will be held at McGeehan Funeral Home (Keck-Coleman Chapel), 1500 Waterford Parkway, St. Johns, on Thursday, March 25, from 4-8PM.

Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 109 Linden St., St. Johns, on Friday, March 26, at 12 Noon. Burial and Military Honors will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery in St. Johns. Due to Covid 19 restrictions, a luncheon will not follow the services. A Celebration of Howard's Life will be planned for everyone in the Summer.

Memorials may be made in his name to St. Joseph Catholic Church.

For further information please phone 989-224-4422 or visit www.McGeehanFH.com
https://www.mcgeehanfh.com/obituaries/Howard-J-Blasen?obId=20391023