Howard M. Bernbaum

Howard Bernbaum, born 4/3/29 in Detroit Michigan, died at the age of 89 on 4/23/18 in Cocoa Beach FL. Howard joins his parents Sid and Birdie Bernbaum and his brother Sheldon Bernbaum (killed in Iwo Jima) in death. He leaves behind his beloved wife Rhoda, his sons, Andy, Lee, and Nathan Bernbaum, his daughter Shelley Wallace, Lee’s wife Leslie, Nathan’s wife Cathy, nine grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, four nieces, two nephews, and many friends.

A licensed mechanical engineer, Howard obtained his BBA and BSME degrees at the University of Miami and his MSME from Memphis State University. He worked in the family businesses, as a pianist in jazz and dance bands, as an engineer for many years with various prestigious firms, and as an associate professor of mechanical engineering at State Technical Institute in Memphis, TN. His passion for learning inspired him to take diverse college classes on line throughout his life.

Howard took an active leadership role in the Boy Scouts of America. He was awarded the Order of the Arrow for his service and involvement in his sons’ scout troop. He loved sailing the coastal waters of Florida, the Abaco Islands, and Bermuda. A lifetime member of the US Power Squadron, Howard served as the Squadron Educational Officer, and taught Power Squadron classes in the community for many years. Being outdoors, camping, fishing, gardening, cooking, painting, designing and building items for his boats gave him great pleasure. He was an avid reader and musician. As a member of Local 655 Miami Federation of Musicians, Howard had the opportunity to play in diverse bands in unique settings throughout Miami.

Howard participated in local writing groups for many years and was supportive of his fellow authors, editing several books for his friends. His articles and letters to the editor were printed in in several boating and yachting magazines. The Linnett’s Wings published one of his short stories. His two books, Were You Talking to Me? and Me and Jim, were published under his writing name (Aitch Embee).

Shortly before his death, Howard said, “I regret not the loss of past pleasures, but will miss the excitement of the future.” He wanted his friends and family to know how much he loved them. His kindness, wisdom, and gentle humor will be missed by the many people whose lives he touched.

For those who wish to pay their respects to Howard, his final resting place is the family crypt at Florida Memorial Gardens in Rockledge, Florida. To honor Howard’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation or to your favorite charity. Memories can be shared and condolences offered at the guest site of the FL Memorial Gardens web site at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/rockledge-fl/howard-bernbaum-7830079