Gene Kelly Hower

Gene Kelly Hower, 92, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Mariner Assisted Living facility in Marblehead, Massachusetts. Born in 1933, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Gene lived a long, full life marked by kindness, resilience, and an easy sense of humor that drew people to him.

Gene was predeceased by his beloved wife of 45 years, Harriett Hower (née Kaplan), as well as his children Chris, Steve, and Matt Hower, and his stepson, Michael Perlman. He leaves his devoted stepdaughter, Lisa Perlman Kaplan, and her husband Alan, along with three cherished grandchildren—Ben, Alex, and Nick.

Gene was born on a farm near St. Joseph Missouri, graduated from the University of Colorado in Boulder with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Upon graduation he worked for Lockheed Aircraft Corporation in Burbank, California before working for GE Aircraft Engines in Cincinnati, Ohio and then to GE in Lynn, Massachusetts where he managed a design team working to assure that aircraft engines were installed to maintain aerodynamic efficiency. He was a member of a NATO subcommittee traveling to a number of European countries.

Upon moving to Marblehead Gene joined the Corinthian Yacht Club and took up sailing where he led his design class fleet with many wins and was awarded a number of trophies over several years. Later in life he took up Contract Bridge and became a Life Master. He was an avid gardener, a committed environmentalist and a longtime supporter of the World Wildlife Fund amongst many other charitable organizations.

Gene and Harriett shared a deep love of travel, spending a month each winter in St. Martin. Their time there—days at the beach, evenings in favorite restaurants, and the simple pleasure of being together—remained among Gene’s most cherished memories. Despite experiencing profound personal loss, he carried himself with remarkable optimism and grace, offering warmth, laughter, and steady positivity to all who knew him.

Gene will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to share in his life. His family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Mariner Assisted Living facility for their exceptional care, compassion, and support over these past years.