Howard R. Carpenter, 84, died Friday, March 25 after a long battle with illnesses.

He was born in Tecumseh, Oklahoma to Clifton and Ruth Carpenter.

After serving in the Army during World War II, on a whim he headed to California with his good friend Jack Stark. He met his love Arlene Agadoni in Patterson during his milk truck route. They married in 1948 and moved to Turlock where he began his career in the grocery business. He and his family relocated to Sonora briefly before finally settling in Oakdale.

Mr. Carpenter worked for the Purity stores before becoming the supervisor over the Sav Mor stores in Oakdale, Riverbank, Waterford, Hughson, and Denair.

He enjoyed spending time with friends over a cocktail and a good story.

The family appreciates his caregivers and nurses at the Oakdale Care Center for their loving care and friends Jean and Mary Jane Castagne for being there for them.

He is survived by wife of 62 years, Arlene Carpenter of Oakdale; daughter, Linda (Bill) Welch of Modesto; son, Russ (Shelly) Carpenter of Oakdale; sister, Dolores Anson of Oklahoma; granddaughters, Melisa Carpenter of Oakdale, Charla Welch of San Francisco; and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Wayne; and sister, Patsy.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to your favorite charity.