Thomas Earl Howard

Thomas Earl Howard was called home on Monday, August 16, 2021. He is now reunited with his beloved wife of 73 years, Dorothy “Dot” Howard, his parents, Pat and Blanche Howard, two daughters, Victoria Menendez and Marilyn Englander, along with his brother, Everett Howard, and his sister, Georgianna Morrow. Born on September 29, 1928 in Pisgah, Iowa, he filled 92 years with incredible experiences. Tom grew up during the Depression, married his high-school sweetheart, served our nation in the US Army Air Corps, raised five children and worked his way up from an entry-level position in heavy construction to crane operator and finally to Vice President of Sales for Clyde Cranes and later, Regional Sales Director for Manitowoc. He travelled the far reaches of the globe on large construction projects, experiencing a variety of cultures and making friends the world over. An avid golfer, Tom was a member of Bayou Barriere in Gretna for more than 50 years. Following its closure, he joined Stone Bridge Golf Club and continued to play into his nineties. In addition, he was an accomplished bowler, with a perfect 300 game to his credit, a keen poker player and a long-time fan and season ticket holder for both the Saints, Jazz and Pelicans. We remember him as a strong, vibrant patriarch, who was devoted to his family and friends. He always enjoyed a great laugh, accepted every challenge with a no-nonsense approach, and lived his long and illustrious life on his own terms. He is survived by his youngest sister, Deloris Burcham, his daughters Linda and Kathy Howard, and his son, Bob Howard, along with 9 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date.