Roland Leroy Howe, 82, of Salisbury, passed away on Sunday December 6, 2015 at the Hospice House at the W.G. Bill Hefner VA Medical Center in Salisbury. Mr. Howe was born on December 4, 2015 in Portland, Connecticut to the late Walter Howe and Verna Baird Howe. Roland proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.

He was of the Pentecostal faith and worked in engineering for multiple boat manufacturers. Roland enjoyed woodworking and would often build toys for children for free. He loved to spend time with his family and friends and was known as the “Candy Man” because he always had candy his pocket for anyone who asked.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers, Walter Howe, Larry Howe, and Jerry Howe.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra LeElla Brandon of Tennessee; three daughters, Merry Rangel and husband Ricardo of Salisbury, Kathleen Palevo and husband Michael of Tennessee, and Christine Palevo of Tennessee; two brothers, Vernon Howe of Gainesville, FL, and Richard Howe of Tennessee; seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday December 17, 2015 at 1:00 PM at the Salisbury National Cemetery (501 Statesville Blvd., Salisbury, NC 28144). Military Honors will be performed by the Rowan County Veterans Honor Guard and the North Carolina National Guard.

A Graveside Service will be held at a later date in Ocala, Florida.

Carolina Cremation of Salisbury and Charlotte is serving the Howe family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.