Howard L. Pollard

Howard L. Pollard, 99 of Arlington Heights, born December 24, 1916 in Boone, Iowa to the late William and Effie (nee Stotts) Pollard, passed away April 30, 2016. Family and friends celebrate his life as one not only well lived but enriching to all who knew him. He will be remembered for his gentle kindnesses, love of life, positive nature, and his ability to demonstrate love in his every act. Howard’s warmth and innate ability to work with people served him well in his 44year career with United Air Lines where he became Director of Personnel, as well as in the many appointed and volunteer positions he held. Howard’s career began with UAL in Cheyenne, Wyoming where he worked at the Maintenance Base. There he met and married the love of his life, his wife of 68 years, Melba. After serving in the Navy during World War II, Howard returned to UAL where he began working in personnel. As he grew with the company, he and his family lived in Colorado, California, and Illinois. During his tenure with UAL, Howard participated in union-labor negotiations in Washington, D.C. under the Johnson Administration, averting a five airline strike. Wherever he lived, Howard gave back to his community, employing his tact and people skills, serving on the Arlington Heights Police and Fire Commission, Beautification Committee and as President of the Real Estate Review Board, as well as in many other volunteer capacities with the Heart Association, United Way, Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, and on several mediation boards. He was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church, serving on many church committees and projects. Howard continued his UAL connections after retirement as President of the Retired United Employees Association for two years and was an active member until his death. Howard’s long and purposeful life was enriched by his love of family and friends, almost as much as he enriched theirs. His UAL colleagues were friends that endured through the years. With each move, his circle of friends grew larger. He and Melba traveled for business to Japan, where he negotiated UAL’s expansion there, and for pleasure to Ireland and throughout the US to visit family and friends. Whether at home or traveling, his affable and enthusiastic nature ensured warm feelings all around. He loved to entertain guests, sharing grilling tips and recipes that endure. Howard loved all kinds of music from classical to jazz and could play most musical instruments by ear. He enjoyed playing tennis, skiing, and golf, playing in UAL leagues into his 80's. The highlight of his golfing experiences was meeting Arnold Palmer at a UAL sponsored golf tournament organized by Howard. To Howard, every day was a beautiful day, no matter what the weather. He loved unconditionally and enjoyed nothing more than being with his family.The positive example of his life will be remembered and honored by those he leaves behind. Howard was the beloved husband of the late Melba J. (nee Koelling); loving father of Linda (Roger) Yeaton, David (Marleen) Pollard and Stephen (Kathy) Pollard; cherished grandfather of Benjamin (Kirsten) Yeaton, Mark Pollard, Matthew Pollard, Luke Pollard, Elizabeth (Chris) Hoff, Rachel Pollard, Rebecca Pollard and Stephen Pollard; great-grandfather of Alexis, Benjamin and Kaitlyn. Howard was preceded in death by his 8 brothers and sisters. Memorial visitation will be Thursday, May 12, 2016 from 1:00 PM until time of memorial service at 2:00 PM at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Avenue, Arlington Heights. Interment will be in the Resurrection Garden at First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights. In lieu of flowers, contributions to First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights appreciated.