Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – MacDonald’s Chapel on Jul. 7, 2025.
Allen James Kremkow, aged 77, of
Howell, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025. Born on October 17, 1947, to the late Clarence and Milda Kremkow, Allen's life was one defined by love, resilience, and innovation.
Allen's story is one of lifelong companionship and love. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 54 years, Joan, with whom he shared a bond that began when they first met in high school, and blossomed into something truly special after graduation. They were married at Trinity Lutheran Church on December 30, 1970, in Utica, Michigan. Their partnership became a guiding light for their family, inspiring everyone with the depth of their adoration for one another.
The joy of his life extended to his daughters, Andrea (Stephen) Syrett, and Deanna (Mark) Robinson. His love and wisdom echoed in the lives of his grandchildren-Nathan Syrett, Nicholas Syrett, Olivia (Eric Dethloff) Robinson, and Brooke Robinson-who never once saw their beloved grandpa without his characteristic smile.
Allen's siblings, Eileen (Alton) Landerschier, and Gerald Kremkow, also share in the legacy of their brother's remarkable life. The bond they shared carried the strength and comfort that only a close-knit family can provide.
A proud alumni of Utica High School, class of 1965, Allen's thirst for knowledge and self-improvement propelled him to General Motors Institute and later to Lawrence Tech, where he earned a bachelor's degree in engineering. His commitment to education did not stop there, as he went on to earn a master's degree in business from Eastern Michigan University, equipping him for a distinguished career.
Allen's work at Ford Motor Company found him designing instrument panels for trucks, where his talents played an integral role in the safety and aesthetic of countless vehicles on the road. His association with Ford extended beyond mere employment-he was a part of a community of innovators and thinkers.
An outdoorsy individual at heart, Allen found solace and pride in nurturing the beauty of his yard. Traveling was more than a pastime; it was an expression of his curiosity and desire to embrace the world in all its splendor.
But above all else, Allen loved being a grandpa. His grandchildren, who were the apples of his eye, drew strength from his perpetual optimism. His sunny disposition remained unshadowed, even as he faced life's challenges. Instead of succumbing to his ailments, he confronted them with a smile. He was widely recognized for his positivity.
Allen's journey through life was an illustration to the power of positivity, the strength of family bonds, and the enduring imprint of a life well-lived. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of those who loved him, as they continue to walk the path of compassion and joy that he paved for them.
His family will receive friends on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – MacDonald Chapel, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM. 315 N. Michigan Avenue,
Howell, MI 48843. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Allen's name to the International Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia Foundation. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Allen, please visit our floral store.