Joann (Ruttkofsky) Howland

Joann (Ruttkofsky) Howland, age 72, passed away peacefully on Sunday July 23, 2023, surrounded by loving family, following complications from an auto accident.  Born on February 27, 1951, to Inez (Bourns) and John W. Ruttkofsky in Tecumseh, Michigan, Joann was part of a large and loving family. Joann was one of nine children: Sandra Smith, Judy (Gene) Martin, Gerald (Diane) Ruttkofsky, Clara Michaluk, Bill Ruttkofsky, John (Caryl) Ruttkofsky II, Joy (Tom) Luck, and Mike (Mylen) Ruttkofsky, all of Onsted. Joann graduated from Onsted High School in 1969. She married Duane Corbin with whom she raised four children: Chad (Sandra) Corbin, Todd (Sandra) Corbin, Cory Corbin, and Sarah Beougher. Joann spent many years as a loving stay at home mother, while also using her creative talents as a beautician from within her own home. From there, she spent time as a secretary at Dr. Byrne’s office. Joann was passionate about helping to raise her five grandchildren: Austin Burkeen, Korinna (Kole) Donaldson, Drew Malinowski, Allison Beougher, and Tristin Corbin, along with her two beloved great granddaughters Kendra and Kora Donaldson. Joann was known for her fun-loving spirit and devotion to Christ. She attended St. Marks Lutheran Church in Brooklyn, Michigan all her life and was president of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. Joann directed several youth Christmas pageants, VBS, and youth groups. She adored her large family and spent much of her time making memories with her mother, sisters, cousins, and friends. Her talents were abundant. You could always find her singing, dancing, decorating, cooking, baking, and crafting. She was born with vast creative and artistic ability. When it came to entertainment, her eye for organizing extravagant events was like no other. She was admired and loved by all who knew her. Joann was preceded in death by her parents Inez & John W. Ruttkofsky, along with her sister Sandra Smith. She is survived by her seven siblings, four children, five grandchildren, two great granddaughters, several cousins, nieces, nephews, and God children. Funeral Services will be held 2:00 PM Friday, July 28, 2023, at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 11151 U.S. Hwy 12, Brooklyn, MI with Pastor Bryan Schindel officiating.  Burial will follow in Tipton Cemetery.  Viewing and visitation will be on Thursday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home 2959 N. Adrian Hwy, Adrian, MI.  Donations are being accepted to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.  www.PurseFuneralHome.com

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