Jess E Howard

Jess Eugene Howard died peacefully Thursday December 4, 2014. Jess was born on December 22, 1919, the beloved son of Celeana and Raymond Howard. Growing up in the depression taught Jess the value of hard work. Starting at a young age delivering newspapers, Jess always outworked everyone. He began working at the Buckeye Pump Co, followed by time at Curtis Wright, and simultaneously attending OSU and Franklin University learning electrical engineering. In 1945 what started as an individual job, became The Jess Howard Electric Company, now nearing its 70th year with 150 employees. Jess continued working at the company he loved up until his death at age 94.

Jess is survived by his loving wife, Joan, whom he has been married to for 59 years after meeting her Christmas caroling. Jess is also survived by his children, Tim (Carolyn) Howard, Jill M. Howard, Jess Jr. (Carla) Howard and Jonathan (Jill) Howard; daughter-in-law, Phyllis Howard; 22 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Jerald “Bud” (Wilma) Howard, Dan (Barbara) Howard; sister, Mary Ann White; sisters-in-law, Carol Markle, Betty Howard, and Delores Howard. Jess was predeceased by children, James Howard, Jeffrey Howard, and Jodi Howard; and siblings Raymond Howard, Charlotte Howard, Isabelle Howard, John “Jack” Howard, and William “Bill” Howard.

Jess loved his wife, family, work, and life in general. His fascination tinkering with things, his work ethic, and his love of life led him to a life filled with memories, accomplishments, and love. He was past President of Associated Contractors of Central Ohio, past President of Associated Builders and Contractors Association, past National Executive Vice President Associated Builders and Contractors Association, past owner of ALNACO, past President of Whitehall Business Association, past President Jefferson Township Business Men’s Association, and served on the Board of Directors at Ohio State Bank that became Star Bank. He was a member of the Builders Exchange of Central Ohio, Ohio Contractors Association, Buckeye Lake Property Owners Association, Catholic Order of Foresters, Columbus Athletic Club, Columbus Country Club, and Buckeye Lake Yacht Club. Jess was a professional pilot for over 45 years and was a member of the Private Pilots Association, Quiet Birdman Association Q.B.’s, and Illuminating Engineers Airport Lighting Group.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday December 10, 2014 at St Matthew Catholic Church, 807 Havens Corners Rd, Gahanna OH. Calling hours will be at SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST CHAPEL, 1051 E Johnstown Rd. on Tuesday December 9, 2014 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Interment Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Reverend Father Sill. Contributions in Jesse’s name can be made to St. Matthew Catholic Church or for wounded veterans at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share a memory of Jess.