Bernard W. "Bernie" Van Howe

Bernard W. "Bernie" Van Howe, age 82, U.S. Army Veteran, passed away on May 6, 2015. Beloved husband of Clara, nee Van Santen. Loving father of James (Barb) and Robert (Michelle). Cherished grandfather of Matthew (Angel), Kyle, Michael, Jill, Benjamin and the late Amanda. Dear brother of Mildred Vos, William and the late Ronald. Born in Chicago on September 6, 1932, Bernie attended Chicago Christian High School where he excelled in academics and athletics and later served two stints on their Board of Directors. He served in the Korean Conflict. Upon returning home, he pursued a career in sales and became president of the Great Lakes Travelers Association. He was an elder at Palos Reformed Church. He was active in youth baseball in Palos Heights, constructing the fields as well as being a manager and umpire-in-chief. One of his former players is now the general manager of the Detroit Tigers. In retirement, he worked with Paul Vallas in auditing the practices of the Chicago Public Schools, was involved in the Palos Heights Veterans Commission and a task force to attract businesses to Palos Heights, as well as acting as the patriarch of his neighborhood. Those who know Bernie appreciated his brilliant mind, his kindness, and his sage advice. Disappointedly, he did not live to see the Cubs win the World Series. Visitation Saturday, May 9, 2015 from 3:00 p.m. until time of Funeral Service 7:00 p.m. at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. Interment private at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Doctors Without Borders (Medicines sans Frontiers), www.doctorswithoutborders.com preferred. Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400