William Clifford Howard II

William C. ''Bill'' Howard II, age 82, formerly of OKC, died on Saturday, March 19, 2011, in Houston, TX. He was born in St. Louis, MO to William & Marguerite, in 1928, and married Jean Marie Balsano in 1948 while starting his career in the hospitality industry. Bill's career included working at the Sheraton Seelbach in Louisville, KY, the Sheraton Biltmore in OKC, and as manager of housing and food services at the Oklahoma Center for Continuing Education on the OU Campus. Bill subsequently moved on to manage at the Lincoln Plaza, Holiday Inn West, and the Hilton NW in OKC. He most enjoyed contributing to the industry by serving as Executive Director of the OKC Lodging Association and teaching professional development courses for aspiring hospitality industry employees. Bill was also a 32nd Degree Mason & Shriner for over 50 years. He was especially proud of his membership in the Skal Club and Royal Order of Jesters. Bill is survived by his only son, William C. Howard III, and daughter-in-law Karen of Houston, two grandchildren, Heather Howard of Sacramento, CA and James Brooks Howard of Norman, OK as well as three great grandsons. He is also survived by a large extended family of loving nieces and nephews and their children. A private family service will be held at Resurrection Cemetery where he will be buried beside his wife who predeceased him. Family and friends are invited to attend a gathering to be held Monday, March 28, from 3-7pm at the Holiday Inn in OKC at SE 15th and Meridian. At this gathering, all who knew him are invited to celebrate his life by presenting fond and humorous stories of times shared. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shriner's Hospital.