Howard Martin Schmies passed peacefully surrounded by family on May 19, 2020 at the age of 92. Howard was born on February 12, 1928 in Cleveland OH. He served in the military police corps with the Army in Yokohama Japan before attending Case Western Reserve for electrical engineering. He spent most of his working career with the General Electric Co in OH, CA, and MN serving in many capacities, including engineering design, sales & marketing and product manager.
Howard enjoyed a variety of hobbies in his spare time, including competitive long range shooting, amateur radio and flying small aircraft. He was a master woodworker specializing in musical instruments, and also made furniture, toys and boats. He shared his love for instrument building in a recent book and published magazine articles as well. Gardening was also a life-long passion.
He is survived by: wife Patricia (Behner) Schmies, and 4 daughters and son-in-laws: Lorrie and Tim Pritchard, Molly and Bill Bombard, Amy and Terry Vodicka, Sally and Andre Bernier. Also 5 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by: parents; Martin F Schmies and Grace (Wiseman), Sisters: Grace Spellacy, Florence Schieman, Nancy Schmies, Norma Schmies-Kirchner and brother; Leland Schmies.
Howard will be laid to rest at Riverview Cemetery in Novelty, OH following a private family service. Arrangements handled by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon, OH. Information and condolences at www.burrservice.com.