Joseph Eugene Howey

Joseph E. Howey, Florence Arizona, Formerly of Gagetown Michigan age 70, passed away on March 16, 2021 at home with family by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born March 31, 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan to Eugene and Ruth (Voelker) Howey. He was united in marriage to Diane Lynn Kastraba on October 6, 1979 in Bach, Michigan.

Joe loved playing guitar with the Praise Team at the Nazarene Church in Gagetown Michigan and then at the First Church of the Nazarene in Mesa, Arizona. He was a long haul truck driver for many years and drove truck for local farmers before moving to Arizona in 2017. He was frequently found in his garage woodworking, working on cars, or "fixing things." He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and friends.

Joe is survived by his wife, Diane, children Amanda Talaski and friend, Rocky; Christina Engelhardt and husband John; Gary Emmons and wife Leann; and Paul Howey.. Grandchildren: Logan, Madyson, Emmalee, Rebecca, Amyah, Laura, and Kayla. 11 great grandchildren; sister Cheryl Moore and Husband, brother Rick and wife Kathy, brother-in-law Lonny, sister-in -law Carol and husband Al; sister-in law Shawn, daughter-in-law, Lorena and Aunt Kathy. Brother-in-law Gary Kastraba and wife Sheila, Sister-in-laws Nancy Howey and Susan Bursick. Several nieces and nephews. Joe was a friend to many and it is said, "He was such an encouragement to know that he served God and inspired people to the very end of his life."

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Ruth Howey, Mother and Father-in-law, George and Freda Kastraba, son Joey, daughter Rebecca, sister Debra, and 3 brothers; Danny, Randy, and Mick.

Cremation has taken place and a "Celebration of Life" is planned for a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Mesa First Church of the Nazarene,955 E. University, Mesa, AZ 85203 or Gagetown Nazarene Church in Gagetown, Michigan 48735.

A special Thank You to Pastor Caudle and Brenda, Wilf and Arlene Meeds, Pastor Loney, Pastor Tom Humphreys, Dr. Chad Cherington, and the many friends who sent prayers and words of encouragement. Also, many thanks to Hospice of the Valley.