Howard Arthur Earl

Howard Earl, 83, beloved brother and uncle, passed away peacefully in the night on January 20th after battling many health issues for several years. Howard was born in 1936 in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania where he lived for 61 years until 2003 when he moved to sunny Arizona with his brother, to be close to his niece Sharon, and enjoy his retirement in a warm climate. Howard worked as a roofer with the family business at the steel mills until he left to join the Air Force. Suffering from asthma since birth, he was honorably discharged after 6 months but was very proud of his time serving his country. He settled into the retail business working as a buyer, manager and salesman at various department stores in Pittsburgh including Gimbel’s, Horne’s and Lazarus, until his retirement.

One of Howard’s passions was his love of movies and books. His movie collection was well into the thousands, which he neatly organized and cataloged. His love of reading, especially about history, made him extremely knowledgeable and a great conversationalist and amassed an immense collection of books. He was passionate about politics and could debate with anyone for hours. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was always making a joke or getting someone to smile.

A life-long bachelor, Howard leaves behind his beloved brother James whom he was extremely close with. The “brothers” as they were known by many, lived together most of their lives and were a perfect example of brotherly love. He also leaves behind his close family, niece Sharon (Earl) Coffini, husband Justin Coffini, great-niece Giovannna Coffini of Arizona. Niece Darrah Stephany Smith, husband Shawn Smith and great nephews Shawn Jr, Shane and Dylan Smith of Pittsburgh PA. Nephew Michael Sayko of Texas. Preceded in death by mother Mary (Sayko) Earl, father Howard O. Earl, and half-brother George Sayko.

Memorial service held at Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery on Friday, January 24, 2020 at 2-3 pm. 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler AZ 85248