Howard J. Lemieux

Howard Lemieux, 83, Rolette, passed away peacefully in his home Thursday, January 10, 2019.  

Howard James Lemieux was born October 15, 1935 at Rolette, ND to Joseph “Joe” and Iva (Everson) Lemieux. He attended elementary school in Maryville Township and graduated from Bottineau High School in 1953. 

Howard and Lavina (Armstrong) Lemieux were married June 15, 1955 in Thorne, ND. Aside from a short time of living in Great Falls, MT, Howard and Lavina made their home on the Lemieux Homestead in Maryville Township.

All aspects of farming interested Howard, from raising livestock to planting and harvesting the fields. His true enjoyment was working with the cows.  Many hours were spent at area sales rings buying and selling cattle.  Howard also drove truck for Spencer Lund, Duane Kavlie and Rolla Farmers Union.  He then bought his own semi and drove cross country hauling a variety of products.  Lavina obtained her CDL and went on the road with Howard which gave them the opportunity to see the sights.

Howard served on the council for Sacred Heart Catholic Church, was a church lector for 40 years, and, took part in several Cursillo’s at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Belcourt. He also served on boards for the Rolette School and Rolette County Farmers Union.  To be a part of the Silver-Haired Legislative Assembly at the State Capitol was an honor for Howard.

Howard took pleasure in conversations on most any topic and didn’t hesitate to share that gift with family, friends or complete strangers.

Howard is survived by his children – Pat (Andy) Beaver, Doug (Kimberly), Robert (Connie), Vicky, all of Rolette; and, Carolyn (Terry) Meester of West Fargo. Grandchildren:  Heather (Ty) Smith, Jennifer (Matt) Goettle; Joan (Brian) McIntyre, Keith (Jess) Sebelius, Paula (Scott) Hekman, Jarrett Meester; Pierre Lemieux, Mario (Nicole) Lemieux, Kaydee (Matthew) Pederson, and Adrian (Kylee) Lemieux; Jacob Lemieux and Adam Lemieux; and, Emma Landrus. Howard is also survived by 17 great-grandchildren and siblings – Phyllis Tonneson; Beverly (Richard) Schoenbeck; Paul (Linda) Lemieux; and, Lavern Lemieux.

Howard was preceded in death by his wife, Lavina; son, Dwight; his parents, Joe and Iva Lemieux; his in-laws, Seward and Lucille Armstrong; and, an infant grandchild, Jamie Sebelius.

A prayer service and time of sharing will be held Friday, January 18 at 7:00 pm. On Saturday, January 19, a rosary will be prayed at 10:30 am with the Funeral Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 am.  All will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rolette, ND with Father Paulraj Thondappa as the celebrant. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, rural Rolette, at a later date. 

Memorials are preferred to Rolette Dollars for Scholars, PO Box 281, Rolette, ND 58366.