VINDEDAHL, Howard
Kalamazoo

Howard Vindedahl was 97 when he peacefully passed away on November 27, 2021. His most recent home was Wyndham Apartments where he lived independently and made many dear friends. Howard was born in Stoughton, Wisconsin to Oscar and Josie (Lunde) Vindedahl. They were hard working dairy farmers, from whom he learned a strong work ethic. He had one sister, Helen, who was 8 years older. He is survived by his two daughters, Ann (John) Kneas and Mary (Tim) Dolbee; 5 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. All had special relationships with “Papa”, “Great Grandpa” and “Grand Papa”.

Howard’s education began in a one room schoolhouse and was completed at the University of Wisconsin where he earned a BS degree in Agriculture (Howard was a lifelong Badger fan.) He married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Lysager, who worked to support him while in college and for the 70 years of their married life together. They shared a passion for antiques, both refinishing and selling them. Barb preceded him in death in 2016.

Howard’s career began at Burgess Seed Company in Galesburg, MI. He went on to work for First National Bank for over 15 years as an agricultural appraiser and branch manager. When Grants General Store in Galesburg was for sale in 1971, it fulfilled a desire to own his own business. Along the way, he became a real estate broker and owned Hallmark Realty. Later in life, he also became a licensed real estate appraiser and worked until he retired at the age of 85.

Throughout Howard’s life he met the changes and challenges with grace and dignity. He lived a life focused on family and friends. His quiet demeanor, know-how to fix anything, knowledge of current affairs and sport’s teams, interest and support in everyone whose life intersected with his, will be his legacy. To be in Howard’s presence was to experience a sense of love, support, and devotion. He will be greatly missed.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, December 18, 2021, at First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park St. Kalamazoo, MI, 49007. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 AM with a memorial service immediately following. Rev. Julie Kline will be officiating. Memorial contributions may be given to Centrica Care Navigators (formally Hospice Care of SW Michigan) or First United Methodist Church; Pastor’s Discretionary Fund, c/o of the funeral home.