Howlett, Gerald Michael “Mike” - Age 75, of Stewiacke.
The family of Michael Howlett, is saddened to announce his sudden passing on July 20th, 2024. Born in Stewiacke, he was the youngest child of George and Sarah “Sadie” (Woodworth) Howlett.
Mike’s employment history included a range of rewarding positions, and resulted in many lifelong friendships. Beginning in 1980, Mike was employed with the Nova Scotia Department of Transportation (Safety Programs) as an Educational Safety Officer. He was affectionately known as “Safety Mike” among staff and students in the schools he visited. He also instructed numerous Defensive Driving courses from Cumberland and Pictou Counties, to Colchester and Hants. He continued as a Driver Examiner in Truro and surrounding areas until retirement.
Mike was well known for his warm welcomes, quick wit, and charismatic story-telling. He was an expert joke-teller and impressionist. He had an uncanny ability to offer up just the right joke or ‘saying’ to match any occasion, always putting others at ease. People were drawn to his fun-loving personality and charm.
Over the years, Mike was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed trout and salmon fishing around the province, meticulously tying his own flies. He made many fishing trips to Newfoundland with his father, brother Gary, cousins, and friends. There were few things that brought him more enjoyment than his trips to the hunting camp in Guysborough County, which he shared with lifelong friends.
In his retirement, he discovered a love for wintering in Florida. His Harley Davidson motorcycle was also a source of summer time enjoyment. He made numerous motorcycle group trips to Laconia, NH, and all over the Atlantic Provinces. He had a deep appreciation for all types of vehicles, and loved driving.
Mike valued friendship. Friendship and socialization was a common thread throughout Mike’s life. He enjoyed live music, dances, travelling to car shows, and being in the company of the special people in his life. He hosted many gatherings at his Howlett family homestead in Stewiacke, before moving to Parkland Retirement Living in Truro, in 2020.
Mike is survived by daughters, Denise (Randy) Smith, Enfield; Krista Howlett, NY; Tammy (Mike) Barbrick, Lantz; grandchildren, Alicya, Molly, Sarah, Duncan, Ruby, Rosie; great-grandchildren, Aiyana, Dantez and Roman; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Sandra Rhind, Shirley O’Brien, Donna Smith; and brother, Gary Howlett.
Cremation has taken place.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations to the Nova Scotia Lung Association would be appreciated.
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