Henry Louis Krem, Age 86, Passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2014, at the VA Medical Center. Henry was born on February 28, 1927, to John and Helen (Barker) Krem. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWII from March 1944 to May 1946. A gunner on the USS Maryland, he manned her 16 inch guns while helping to liberate several Japanese held islands. Awards include, Victory Medal, American Area Campaign Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal (2 stars) and Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Medal (4 stars). Henry worked at Eaton Mfg., in Battle Creek and GMC Truck and Coach in Pontiac prior to moving to Arkansas. He returned to Battle Creek four years ago. His marriage to Lucille Keyes ended in divorce. He married Wilma Silsby on February 5, 1966. Both preceded him in death. Survivors include a brother, Art Krem of Battle Creek; daughters, Beverly Drake of Waterford, Shirley Markos and step-sons, James Keyes and Roger Keyes of Battle Creek; 9 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. He loved his family and was an avid fisherman all his life, enjoying many trips to Manistee with son-in-law, Drew Markos. A memorial service to honor Henry’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 18, 2014. Visitation will be held from 11:00 to 12:00 p.m. The entire family gratefully acknowledges the exceptional staff of the VA Medical Center (including granddaughter and registered nurse Tonya Nicholls) for their loving care. Memorial donations may be made to Director of Voluntary Services Activity Fund at the VA Medical Center, Battle Creek, MI. www.henryfuneralhome.org
