Howard A. Clendaniel, former state representative

Howard A. Clendaniel, 85, of Ellendale  passed away peacefully at home Monday, March 19, 2018.

Howard was born and raised on his family farm in Ellendale, and was the son of the late Robert F. and Etha (Penuel) Clendaniel.

Howard was a lifetime farmer and poultryman, and was elected to the State of Delaware House of Representatives where he served for 12 years, two of those years as the majority whip. Howard was also elected to Sussex County Register of Wills where he also served for 12 years.

His memberships included Delaware Electric Co-Op Board Member since 1996, serving as director-at-large with eight of those years as chairman, Southern States Petroleum Board, Delaware State Farm Bureau, Farmers Bank Board of Trustees, past president of Georgetown Kiwanis Club, former board member of the Delaware Agriculture Museum and a member of McColley's Chapel U.M. Church.

In addition to his parents, Howard is preceded in death by his older brothers, Edwin J. Clendaniel and Richard R. Clendaniel.

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Deborah Clendaniel; two daughters, Karen Clendaniel Smith and husband Jay, and Sara Hudson Baker; three grandchildren, Dr. Jeff Smith and wife Marie, Ellie Baker and McKenna Baker; as well as three great-grandchildren, Kate Smith, Cole Smith and Cam Smith.

A funeral service will be held at noon, Friday, March 23, at Crossroad Community Church, 20684 State Forest Road, Georgetown, with visitation after 10 a.m. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are welcome to be made to Crossroad Community Church at the above address, or McColley's Chapel U.M. Church, 19024 Dupont Blvd., Georgetown, DE 19947.

Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services, Georgetown.