Howard E. Sherman Jr.'s Obituary
Howard E. Sherman Jr. passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, May 17, 2019, surrounded by loved ones. He passed away from a 7 year battle with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis; (terminal illness that involves scarring of the lung tissue).Howard was born in Penfield, NY on September 23, 1930. After graduating HS in Penfield he went on to SUNY Oswego where he met and married his first love Laura. Howard joined the Armed Services just out of College and worked for the Army Intelligence Unit. After leaving the Army, Howard returned to school for his Masters from Montclair State University.Howard was an educator for over 30 years in several of the NY and NJ school systems starting as a Graphics/Woodworking/Automotive teacher in Hamilton NY, Dean of Students in Columbia HS in Maplewood NJ, and retiring as Vice Principal of Mainland Regional HS in Linwood, NJ.In 1985 at age 55, Howard retired with his loving wife Anita. This afforded him the opportunity to join the Power Squadon in Fort Myers and pursue his dream of cruising the open waters in his 1972 42 ft. Grand Banks Trawler (all wood). Howard and Anita cruised the waterways from Florida to the Bahamas and up the Intercoastal to New York, and the Canada Loop, meeting many new friends that he would maintain for life, and sharing many fun adventures. The Grand Banks named “Pearl” after his mother, was a labor of love that took endless hours to sand, varnish, fix leaks and maintain; all of which Howard and Anita performed rain or shine. Subsquent to Anita’s passing in 2001, Howard was fortunate enough to meet Barbara who shared his background in teaching and brought a spirit of adventure as much as he did. They also traveled the NY to Canada loop; Barbara was Howard’s love and companion until his death.In addition to his love of cruising, Howard was a Master craftsman and skillyfully made furniture including a 20 ft. gazebo, 6 ft. wishing well, 10 ft. china hutch, mirrors, numerous frames, candle holders, etc. In addition, Howard built the solid wood Courtroom in the Town of Caroga, NY where it is still being used today.Howard was also a summer resident of Caroga, NY for over 70 years, first as a young adult with his parents, then with his family for decades. Howard graciously volunteered his services to not only building the courtroom, but also to teach New York State Boating Safety courses at no charge to the town or students. In addition, Howard was one of the first to volunteer to work on the weed management program which included diving and retrieving invasive weeds that would choke out the viability of the lake as a recreational destination if unattended. Howard helped fix or rebuild any old boat that came his way. Howards love for old boats had him purchasing and maintaining an original 1930 Chris Craft and numerous antique sailboats and canoes; painstakingly restoring each to its original function and luster. The Chris Craft continues to charm the local waterways of Caroga Lake, NY today.Howard last days were spent visiting with his children as they came to take care of him when he was no longer strong enough to endure lifes daily grind. He was able to reminisce with family, friends, and neighbors; all of the adventures and mishaps along the way of his life.Howard leaves behind 7 loving children; Elizabeth Kenney, John Husted-Sherman, Kathryn Somers, Howard Kempton, Sharon MacCoy-Egert, Barry MacCoy, and Randy MacCoy. In addition, He leaves behind 11 Grandchildren John, Jason, Alex, Emma, Joel, Sarah, Rachel, Paul, Marissa, Jonathan and Cristy; and 4 great Grandchildren; Shane, Christian, Skylar and Ettiene. Lastly, Howard leaves his loving companion of 18 years Barbara Davis; and his shadow, Brandy, as well as numerous dear friends.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in loving memory of Howard Sherman to: The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 500 Chicago IL 60611. 888-733-6741A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at 9:30 at The Grace Church, 14036 Mantanzas Drive, Ft Myers, FL 33905. Inurnment including Military Honors will follow at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 1589 Colonial Boulevard, Ft. Myers, FL. 33907 (239) 936-0555. To share a story, photo, tribute or offer a condolence, please visit www.fortmyersmemorial.com and sign the guestbook.
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