Howard James Normile

Dr. Howard James Normile, Ph.D., age 69, passed away peacefully Friday, August 7, 2020 at his home in Alger with his loving wife Ruth by his side. Howard was born in Detroit, Michigan on Friday, June 29, 1951 to Henry J. and Myrtle M. (Belleau) Normile. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Mt. Clemens, completed his undergraduate studies at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, MI, then went on to get his Ph.D. in Physiology from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. Dr. Normile spent the beginning of his professional career as an associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry, Wayne State University School of Medicine and as a research scientist focusing on animal models of age-related memory deficits in which he was well published. He also received grants from the National Institutes of Health, Alzheimer’s Association, and many other funding institutions. In recognition of his achievements, he received numerous honors and awards. Dr. Normile was a vital part of establishing the Physician Assistant Studies program in the former College of Pharmacy and Allied Health at Wayne State University, now the Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences where he was Associate Dean for Health Sciences. While Associate Dean, he expanded the Radiologic Sciences curriculum by collaborating with Henry Ford Hospital to add the Diagnostic Radiologic Technology Program. Dr. Normile was also appointed Interim Dean several times.

Howard married Ruth Anne (Raymond) on March 23, 2006 in the Caribbean island of St. Lucia. Howard’s love of family is what motivated him throughout his life, especially his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved fishing, boating and woodworking. He enjoyed traveling, playing cards and pool with his wife and friends. Howard also participated in competitive shooting in which he won several awards.

Surviving family include his beloved wife Ruth of Alger, his daughters, who loved him very much, Sarah (Travis) Reeves of Royal Oak, Emily (Dr. Justin) Chamberlain of Royal Oak, and his stepdaughters Stephanie (Jeff) Satkowiak of Waterford, and Dr. Laura (Jeff) Pisani of Royal Oak. He adored his grandchildren Delia, Dylan, Luke, Ethan, Lily, and Nolan. He is also survived by his ex-wife and friend Bonnie Normile. Howard is preceded in death by his parents, and brother Henry “Hank” Normile, Jr.

Howard’s wishes were to be cremated and have his ashes scattered by family on their property overlooking the river he loved, the sunrise and the beginning of every new day.

In lieu of flowers the family asks to please consider a memorial contribution to The American Kidney Fund or your favorite charity.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. www.steuernolmclaren.com