Sent a gift in memory of Ernest "Ernie" Howard

Da da da da da da. Da da da da da da. Da da da da da da. Ernie works in the Rec Center.

Cathy, Toby, and Bob; I thought that I knew Ernie pretty well until I read the other tributes to him written here. Outwardly he liked to appear gruff and hard nosed, but it is obvious that he was just a big “teddy bear”. My favorite story about Ernie is one that most people who know us both have probably heard, because he always told it to everyone to who me he introduced me. When Ernie was a sophomore in high school, I was the JV basketball coach. In later life he always introduced me by saying,”this is Mr. Allen, he was my high school basketball coach (long pause) for three days. HE CUT ME!! Of course that always got a laugh, then I had to explain myself. Coaches often make lifetime friendships with former members of their teams, but how many can number among their best friends former students whom they cut from the team? Then, later after we both had been retired, Ernie told me of the availability of a part time job with the SWCS in the rec, centers, became my coworker, then my boss. He could have “cut” me any time after that, but no, when I was injured and later when my wife was seriously ill, he covered for me, and brought meals to us. That was Ernie. Cathy, I can’t begin to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. He wasn’t perfect, but from all the wonderful stories I’ve heard about him since his illness, he was a wonderful guy. He was always thinking about, and doing for others. That makes him aces in the eyes of God.

John Allen

Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Ernest "Ernie" Howard Jr..

I am so sad to hear about Ernie passing. We were partners in crime at West HS for 4 years, sharing a classroom and job title. He was determined that he was not going to like me when I came because I was not going to fit into the “boys club”. He found out that I was not so bad. He made me laugh and always had my back. We shared our love of crossword puzzles and peppermint patties. Every time I have thought about him over the years it brought a smile to my face. He had a love for kids and a hate for the bs that stood in the way. RIP my friend. You will be missed dearly. Thank you for being a great friend. 
Juli Knecht

Cathy, It was so good to see Ernie at our 50th class reunion. So happy that we were able to exchange stories and memories from High School, College and our Alumni Championship run in 1983.There is no doubt that Coach Howard helped shape and mold many student athletes in the Grove City Community. Ernie was a great asset to our town and sports programs, his loss will be felt by many for generations to come. His passing and knowing that he is watching from above, can help me follow some of the examples he set in living his life .Cathy, you are a wonderful person and Ernie was so lucky to have you in his life!!  We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Love Gary & Gina

Cathy...I am saddened to hear the news about Ernie.  So many of us 'Zephertowners' from college were so close in those days.  The memories are endless!  Ernie was such a good friend then and even though we drifted apart in later years we still were like brothers.  I first met Ernie in Sunday School class in the sixth grade at Westgate Baptist Church (about 57 years ago!) where our friendship was instant.  Even though we went to different high schools, we stayed in touch during those days.   We remained close friends after college playing touch football, softball, basketball and any other sport we could think of, while arguing if my Braves were better than his Big Red Machine.  My sadness is certainly apparent but is far exceeded by the joy I get when thinking about all of the great memories of the good ole' days.  Our loss is Heaven's gain and my hope is to see him again there!  I pray God's comfort will be with you as you remember what a good person Ernie was and how many of us were drawn to him and his goodness!

Gary Chiero

I'm sure as many reflect on fond memories with Ernie, a common theme repeats: generosity, loving family, and passion to help student athletes. This is just my story... I first met Ernie while coaching football at Grove City and attending college to finish up my education degree.  Like any college student away from home, I was broke, living in a friend's basement, and in desperate need of guidance.  Ernie took me under his wing, like he's done for countless others, and provided the support I needed. I ate many meals in the Howard home that year. I even became a Cincinnati Reds fan. And who could forget his ability to masterfully craft unforgettable one liners!  His support did not end by simply inviting me into his home for a home cooked dinner... he gave me clothes, drove me around when my car broke down and even helped me find my first home.  He made Grove city feel like home.  I still live here! Cathy, Toby and Bob all shared that same open generosity that was so prevalent in the Howard home. It's impossible to give enough thanks back to such generosity.  Thank you, friend and mentor. My life would not be the same without your unbridled generosity. 
You will be missed.

Bruce Bryant

Cathy,Toby and Bob ,
So sorry to hear of your loss. “Mr Howard”
touched so many young lives and parents too.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike and Pam Camboni 
Huron, Ohio

When our youngest broke his leg and was out of football for the rest of the season, Ernie took him under his wing and kept him on the sidelines with him.  During the game you would see them discussing plays or just talking.  I hope he knew how much this helped Brandon (and mom and dad).

Ernie was a great man and cared for the kids of Grove City very much. When I first came back to Grove City to coach football at the high school, Ernie took me under his wing and showed me the ropes. He introduced me to my wife Vicki and will always be appreciative of that. There were many great times with Ernie at clinics, games and outside of football. I am very sorry for you loss Cathy,Bob and Toby. Cathy thanks for all of the great meals and the hospitality at your house all the time. He will be missed and I know he will always be looking down on Grove City with pride because he loved Grove City. God Bless the Howard family.    Andy Canter

I have hundreds of great Ernie Howard memories, but one story explains the essence of the man. In 2004 I got a call from long time Upper Arlington assistant football coach Dan Dupler. He wanted to join the Grove City football staff but I was out of contracts and “Dupe” was not one to coach for free.  Ernie knew coach Dupler and how valuable he would be to our staff.  Ernie said “ Coach Mac give Dupe my contract and I will coach for nothing this year.”  That was Ernie, always going the extra mile and willing to sacrifice. There are countless kids who benefited from Ernie’s generosity. It may have been a pair of shoes, a meal, a ride home or tutoring.  Ernie was always putting his students and athletes first.  I enjoyed many practices, beers, clinics and friendship with Ernie. His wife Cathy is a saint and has always been supportive of my boys.  Bless you Cathy, sorry for your loss. Toby and Bob your Dad was an awesome and good man. I will miss my friend.

OBITUARY

Ernest "Ernie" Howard

January 22, 1951 – October 21, 2019

Schoedinger Midtown

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