Howard “Howie” Roland Fease, 74, a lifelong Whitinsville resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12th, after a long period of declining health.  Howie is survived by his wife, Andrea Midori Midtmoen Fease, whom he married in 1988.

Born in Peoria IL in 1952, he was the son of Roger Harlan Fease and Thelma Virginia (Hanson) Fease. He graduated from Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School. Upon graduation, he had his own automotive businesses for many years before working for several local dealerships.

He previously served on the Northbridge Board of Health, Housing Authority, and Redevelopment Authority.

Howie had a unique talent for engines. He enjoyed working on all types of equipment from lawnmowers to automobiles. He could diagnose them just by listening, and invented unique ways to fix them better than brand new.

After retiring from the automotive industry, Howie decided to pursue a love for antiques. He and Andrea formed AndHow! Antique Telephones, specializing in old telephones, but also dabbling in clocks, victrolas, and various other antiques. They enjoyed going to flea markets and antiques venues looking for the next treasure to fix and resell.

Howie’s family summered on Hog Island, Rhode Island. He and Andrea eventually built their own summer home there, and spent many fun years enjoying the wildlife, digging their own quahogs, and living a rustic lifestyle on an island with no electricity and only private boat access.

In 2006 Howie and Andrea sold their holdings on Hog Island and bought their small farm in Whitinsville. There they enjoyed farm life with horses, goats, chickens, ducks, and of course their beloved housecats.

Howie will be remembered for having a generous heart and making people laugh with his many stories. He also enjoyed antique cars and could be seen driving his Model T Ford and Plymouth throughout the neighborhood.

Andrea wishes to thank everyone at Medway Country Manor for their kind and exceptional care for Howie during his last months.

Carr Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.  There are no calling hours and burial will be private.  For those who wish, donations in Howie’s name may be made to Ocean State Veterinary Specialists https://osvs.net/ or Neady Cats https://neadycats.org/ .