Howard A. Luurtsema

Howard A. Luurtsema, 80, a resident of Winhall, VT, passed away unexpectedly August 14, 2019 at his home. Howard was born in Sommerville, MA on December 13, 1938, the son of the late George and Violet Luurtsema,and attended local schools. Howard worked as a mechanic over 50 years. He later became a Part time Winhall Police Officer for over 15 years, and worked part time for the Bennington County Sheriff’s Department. He owned and operated his own mechanical repair shop from his home for over 10 years. Howard was a Veteran of the United States Navy in the 50’s. He enjoyed motorcycling, camping trips in his R.V., loved all kinds of music, especially rock & roll, loved grilling and his dog (Skylee). Howard was a very patriotic person and proud to be an American. He was a member of Mt. Lebanon Lodge Number 46 of the FA&M in Jamaica, a Shrine and Scottish Rite member and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Howard is survived by his wife Janice Pitney Luurtsema of Winhall whom he married June 23, 1979 in Winhall, sons Michael Luurtsema and his wife Linda of Springfield, VT, Christopher Luurtsema of Littleton, NH and Ralph “Buzzy” Cameron, Jr. of Shakopee,MN, daughters Cathleen Sargent of Bondville, VT, Rita Knutson and her husband Gary of Lakeville, MN, Cindy Suplinski and her husband Larry of Shakopee, MN, Karen Banks of Bondville, VT, his sister Lillian Schwager and her husband Carl of Willimantic, CT and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters. Masonic Rites for Howard will be celebrated Saturday August 24, 2019 at 1pm at Mt. Lebanon Lodge Number 46, of the FA&M in Jamaica, VT, an Eastern Star Ceremony, and finally Military Honors. Interment is private. There are no visiting hours. If friends desire, memorial gifts in Howard's memory may be made to the Mt. Lebanon Lodge #46 of the FA&M and Order of the Eastern Star, c/o Brewster-Shea Funeral Home P.O. Box 885 Manchester Center, VT 05255. To send the family personal condolences please visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com. The family has entrusted arrangements to the care of Brewster-Shea Funeral Home 34 Park Place Manchester Center, VT.