Howard E. Chase Jr. 70, a life-long resident of Fitzwilliam died on Friday, October 12, 2018. He passed from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
Howard was born the son of the late Rita (Prive) and Howard E. Chase Sr. on July 25, 1948 in Winchendon, Ma. He was educated locally at Monadnock Regional High School.
Soon after high school, Howard enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served his time during the Vietnam War as a Truck Driver assigned to A. CO. 1st MT. Bn. 1st. Mar. Div. (Rein) FMF. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, Vietnam Service Medal with one Star, Rifle Marksman Badge and a Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Cpl. E-4 on February 20, 1970.
Howard was formerly married to Laura Chase.
He was the owner of Smokey’s Trucking Co. in Fitzwilliam for many years. He was also employed by John Holman Excavating as a heavy equipment operator for many years.
Howard enjoyed woodworking, snowmobiling and four wheeling. He also liked to tinker with small engines and other motorized components.
Mr. Chase is survived by his three children; Michelle L. Ells and her husband Henry of FL. John W. Chase Sr. and his wife Jaime of Keene and Nicole M. Gregory and her husband Chris of Fitzwilliam. His siblings; Ronald Chase of Fitzwilliam and Marjorie Pelkey of Rindge. His grandchildren; Chenelle Ells, Colby Ells, Zachary Dodge, John Chase Jr. Jasmine Chase, Izaya Gregory and Makenzie Gregory. A great-grandchild, Logan Ells. In addition, he leaves cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Howard is pre-deceased by his siblings; Gloria Pelkey and Bonnie Divoll.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, October 22, 2018 from 5 to 7pm. A celebration of life service will occur on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at 10am. all in the funeral chapel. Burial will follow in the family lot with military honors at Pine Grove Cemetery, Royalston Rd. Fitzwilliam. Flowers will gladly be accepted. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com
