Howard A. Hess, age 80 lifelong resident of the Big Rapids area, passed away Monday March 7, 2011. He was born November 23, 1930 the son of Albert and Naomi (Story) Hess. Howard graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1951. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army, serving during the Korean War. Howard worked for Wolverine World Wide in Big Rapids where he was a well rounded employee that was liked by his coworkers. It was there he met Violet Boyce whom he married on November 20, 1953. Howard retired from Wolverine in 1993. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching football, always hoping the Lions would have a good year. Howard liked to stay active and especially enjoyed tinkering on cars and semi's in his son's garage. Howard is survived by his wife of over 57 years, Violet of Paris; 5 children, Mike (Nancy) Hess of Muskegon, Kathy (Bryan) Tyler of Newaygo, Lewis Hess and Bruce Hess both at home in Paris, Joe Hess of Howard City; 6 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Shore of Big Rapids and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Howard was preceded in death by an infant son, Larry Hess; 2 brothers Joe and Glenn Hess and 2 sisters; Hazel Fellows and Blanche Schwab. At Howard's request, cremation has taken place and there will be no public services.