I wanted to write this while I have the time, the will, and the freshness of memory. Although nothing on earth can revive the heartbeat of our lost loves, it remains true that laughter, kind words, a touch, and shared moments will keep him at our side. Far from an empty wish, it is our solace to never forget, a gift from God. And so, here is the man to whom we've offered our final farewells...Howard was a technology buff with a special knack for understanding computer networks in large industry as well as at home. His extensive knowledge of protocols and large corporate systems was exemplary. He worked hard at his career, but there is so much more...
His family remained the chief focus of every day for Howard; he shared both concerns and boasts alike for his sons. Their lives became his story, so much so that his home was the gathering place for many teenagers, a place where they could talk, laugh, and learn. His wisdom made a strong impact on many young men who know Howard as a mentor who reached out to push them in the right direction.
He was more than just a Dallas Cowboys fan; he KNEW football. He lived the game from his youth onward and played for Arizona State achieving victory at the Fiesta Bowl in 1983. This same university gave us Jim Jeffcoat, Defensive End, who graduated the previous year to join the Dallas team. Also, famed NFL star quarterback, Danny White, was a Sun Devil back in the 70's. Although sidelined with a career-ending knee injury, he coached from the bench (or couch) and actively cheered for his sons in their sporting days!
He loved God and shared his faith with all who knew him, including as a Sunday School teacher for many years. He presented the Gospel with an uplifting attitude that came from an abiding faith within. Jesus' instruction struck him personally so that his discipleship was more than words; he met the needs of others in action as when his family assisted with emergency relief efforts. Although he certainly held a great presence physically, his spiritual stature among his peers was larger still. A respected man who sought the Lord's will in his own life.
He was a good son, daily caring for his mother despite her failing health and he was sure to include her on family vacations to Disney World. He loved being at the Magic Kingdom in Florida with family and friends to enjoy such special times together. It is fitting that a land of dreams was where he found comfort; unable to experience the roller-coaster aspect, he found satisfaction in the smiles and the laughter... and the food ;-)
His wife, Jeri, lived at the center of Howard's life; he knew just how blessed a man is who has a godly wife. He cared for her deeply and strove to offer more than support; to provide a home to grow a happy family; to be nurturing in spirit; to instill values and character in their sons; to know her heart; to share their days; and above all, to love her more than himself.
Notwithstanding his ill health, chronic pain, and a medley of medications, he kept cheerful so that he greeted friends with a smile. Whether enjoying dinner, a backyard swim, sharing stories, or playing with grandchildren, Howard stood out as an encourager! Children were strongly drawn to him - my grand-daughter called him "Tower'd" which reminds me that he stood tall despite his damaged legs. Some thought he was Santa Claus; his resemblance in girth, gray and whiskers is easily noted, but what makes the comparison ring true is his giving, joyful spirit, and love for others!
He would hold nothing back from me if I had a need
He would give what he had and ask others to help
He would tell me the truth when a lie would be easier
He was as much my grand-daughters' Papa as I am
He was a father for his sons' friends
He is a man with a legacy alive today in us
He brightened my day
He was a man of heart
