Col. Howard C. StrandCol. Howard C. Strand, (Ret.) MI ANG, proud American and military aviator passed away on January 8, 2017 after a short illness. He was born on June 28, 1921 in Otsego, MI.Howard was part of the greatest generation. He was raised on a farm and later as part of his military career had met astronauts, flew many dignitaries including governors and congressman and attended meetings at the White House. He is well known in the area for his years as commander of the ANG base in Battle Creek, his years as chairman of the Battle Creek Balloon Air show, commander of American Legion Post 54 and his many letters to the editor. Col. Strand had an outstanding military career with numerous achievements and awards. He had a total of 38 years of service between WWII, Korea, Air War College, and the Michigan Air Guard. Always a fighter pilot, he flew 21 different aircraft. He was Battle Creek ANG base commander and Wing Commander at Selfridge ANG for 29 years before retiring in 1981, and was recently honored by the present commander for his many years of service to the Guard.Howard and Loretta spent many wonderful years together, wintering in Florida and traveling to different parts of the world. Dancing to the Lou Boyd Band at Burnham Brook was one of his favorite past times. Howard was an avid reader who kept the library busy.He was preceded in death by: parents Mildred and Carl Strand, 3 sisters Yvonne, Marylaine, and Viola, his oldest son Kenneth and son-in-law Jim Slone.Surviving are his beloved Loretta and 6 children: Jack (Judy) Strand, Duane (Marie) Strand, Jacqueline (Brett) Grable, Frances Slone, Cheryl (Tim) Jones, LuAnne (Dave) Upson, Daughter - in - law Joyce Strand, Brothers Milton Strand, Fred (Bonnie) Strand, sister Joyce (George) Galloway, 18 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at 2:30pm. A luncheon and celebration of life will be held at the American Legion Post #54 in Battle Creek, MI on Friday, January 13, 2017 at 1:00pm. Memorial contributions may be directed to S.A.F.E. Shelter, P.O. Box 199, Battle Creek, MI 49016. Arrangements by Kempf Family Funeral Homes.