George W. Howard

George W. Howard, 95, of Manchester, loving father and devoted husband of almost 65 years to the late Kathryn (Charant) Howard, died peacefully on Monday, March 21, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. George was born on January 24, 1921 in Middlebury, VT, a son of the late Mae Vasseur. George was raised in Burlington, VT, or as he referred to it; God's Country. He eventually moved to Springfield, MA with his mother and brothers and graduated from the former Springfield Trade School. As a young man he moved to New York City where he was employed as a theater manager. It was there he met and married his sweetheart, Kathryn. Shortly after the birth of their two eldest daughters they moved to Hazardville, CT and raised their seven children. George began his career as a tool and die maker, retiring as a manager from the Stanadyne Corp. George was happiest when surrounded by his family, whether it be watching his beloved Patriots, Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, enjoying cookouts, holidays, or having a cocktail while reminiscing about the good old days. One of the happiest moments in his life was getting to see his Red Sox finally win not one but three World Series. He proudly wore his Bruins Stanley Cup hat everywhere he went. George was quite the character. His sense of humor, witty comebacks and outgoing personality allowed him to make friends wherever he went. He enjoyed his trips back to Burlington, most recently visiting with the Monsignor at St. Joseph's Church where he served as an altar boy in his youth. He loved square dancing, Irish music, Garth Brooks, his daily newspaper and all teams Boston. Most of all, George cherished his children and, in his words, "the only girl for me", his wife Kathryn. He is survived by their children; Barbara Howard of Manchester, CT; Brenda Souliere and her husband Edward of Agawam, MA; Lisa Liptak - Kontnick and her husband Jeffrey Kontnick of North Haven, CT; Michael Howard of West Springfield, MA; and Patrick Howard and his fianc Erin Wilson of Middlefield, CT; six loving grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife and mother he was predeceased by a daughter, Susan Cyphers, and a son, Christopher Howard. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 29, 2016 at Holmes Funeral Home, 400 Main St. Manchester from 10:30 am to 12 noon with a service to begin at 12 noon. Burial will follow in East Cemetery, Manchester. Memorial contributions may be made to the Manchester Salvation Army 661 Main St. Manchester, CT 06040 or to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, The Jimmy Fund, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA. 02284-9168. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmes-watkinsfuneralhomes.com



Visitation DetailsTuesday, March 29th, 2016 10:30am - 12:00pm, Holmes Funeral Home
Service DetailsTuesday, March 29th, 2016 12:00pm, Holmes Funeral Home
Interment DetailsEast Cemetery