HOWARD ‘HOWIE’ NORMAN STRUVE

Howard “Howie” Norman Struve, 54, of 832 Crowe Ave., Fort Frances, Ont., passed away at his home on Monday, Jan. 4, 2010.
He was born March 15, 1955 in Fort Frances to the late Leonard and Eunice Struve.
Howie grew up in Fort Frances but spent a lot of his earlier years in Sapawe and Crilly. In Fort Frances High School, he was an avid gymnast and wrestler.
Howie was united in marriage to Heather Gustafson on Oct. 1, 1983.
Throughout his life, Howie had a great passion for fishing and hunting. He also thoroughly enjoyed motorized sports, and bathtub and snowmachine races. For many years, Howie had worked at Busch’s Auto Supplies in Fort Frances as a sheet metal fabricator, which he studied in Thunder Bay, Ont.
Howard “The Duck” will always be remembered for his unique handyman skills from building friends’ saunas, trailers, and decks. Another thing Howie will be remembered for is his art of cooking different meats, always experimenting and sharing with anyone who walked through his door.
Howard’s life on Earth was ended far too early but while he was with us, he accomplished so many wonderful things. He had a soft spot for those in need, he volunteered by coaching a college paraplegic basketball team, and always was the first to offer his hands, tools, words of advice, and patience to friends and family, especially his daughter, Summer, over the years.
Howie was a guy’s guy, but he was able to father Summer in the softest and kindest way. He brought out the tomboy in her, shooting her first gun, fishing, gymnastics, welding at age four, and snowmachining (probably too fast ).
Their bond was strong, and Howie always knew what Summer needed, whether a shoulder to cry on, a helping hand, or a silent knight in shining armour.
“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.” Forever and always, Summer.
Howie is survived by his daughter, Summer Struve and Jeff Ross of Winnipeg, Man.; his two sisters, Kelly and Leslie Struve and their families; extended family members; and his longtime friend, Heather Gustafson.
Cremation has taken place at Rainy River Cremation Services in International Falls, Mn.
A celebration of Howie’s life will be held Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010 from 2-4 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Br. #29 in Fort Frances.
A graveside service will be held at the Fort Frances Cemetery at a later date.
In memoriam donations may be made to charity of your choice c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com