Howard Arthur Crossman

Howard A. Crossman, 96, of St. Joseph, passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023 at Pine Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Stevensville.

Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial service is being planned for later this year. Online condolences accepted at www.PikeFH.com. Memorial contributions may be made to The Caring Circle, 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085.

Howard was born on March 12, 1927 in Benton Harbor, the son of Howard A. Crossman and Rosamond (Schneider) Crossman. On October 17, 1952 he married Beth Deaner Willard and she preceded him in death in 2014.

Howard was raised in Benton Harbor graduating high school in 1945. He was center on the basketball team that was undefeated during the regular season and made it to the state finals. Upon turning age 18 he enlisted in the Navy and served his country in the Pacific theater at the end of World War II. In 1948 he was hired by the Israelite House of David as an assistant bookkeeper to his future wife, Beth. He was employed for 64 years by the House of David retiring as their business manager in 2012.

Howard was an interesting person with many talents. He played several different sports in his day, was a very good artist, wrote poetry, and could sing and dance. He was assistant basketball coach in the mid 1960s at Benton Harbor Junior College and gave golf lessons to people just for the asking. He also helped many individuals with life problems turn themselves around.

Survivors include his son H. Thomas (Phyllis Livengood) Crossman, step-son Richard E.(Kristy) Willard, Jr., grandchildren Zachary (Lauren Larrieu) Crossman, Kaitlin (Matthew) Trautman, Jonathan (Erin) Willard, great-grandchildren Molly and River Trautman, Nathan and Sarah Willard, and niece Stephanie (Frank) Burke.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his sister Joan Fishbeck, and his brother Gerald Crossman. He is and will be dearly missed by his family.

Arrangements entrusted to Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, The Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Highway, Bridgman.