Obituary of Howard F Smith

Howard F. Smith of Rochester passed away January 20th, 2016 at age 93. Predeceased by his son, Howard F. Smith, Jr. He is survived by his childhood sweetheart and loving wife of 68 years, Lucile (Paulson) Smith and by his children, Lucile (Rodney) Harrington of Milbridge, ME; Michael (Anita) Smith of Lewiston, ME; Elizabeth (Wendell) Oppewall of Southwest Harbor, ME; and Susan (Kraig) Kummer of Pittsford, NY. Howard was born in New Britain Ct. He graduated from St. Michaels College in 1944. As a Lt. JG, in the US Naval Reserves, he saw active duty in the Pacific Theater during WW II. Following the war, he was a regional salesperson for Stanley Works Corporation throughout the midwest. He returned to Connecticut and completed degrees in education at Teachers College of Connecticut and the University of Hartford as well as doctoral studies at the University of Connecticut. He held several positions in education, but he perhaps most enjoyed his role as Superintendent of Schools in Stafford Springs, CT where he guided an entire generation of learners. Howard was a gentleman and scholar possessing a voracious appetite for knowledge. He was a man of deep faith who loved poetry, all types of music, his homes in Florida and Maine, and travel. In addition to his sweetheart, his two passions were piloting his Cessna to points unknown and observing the magic of the night sky. Howard was a loving man who cherished his 8 grandchildren and his 12 greatgrandchildren. He celebrated their joys and achievements and was a steady guiding influence in their lives. His love was unconditional and was reciprocated by his ever growing family. His granddaughter describes him as, "Ninety three years of wonderful. Husband of 68 years, father, grandfather, great-grandfather times 12, Navy veteran and accomplished pilot. But best of all, blanket fort engineer, slapstick joke master, confidence builder, mischief making accomplice, expert whistler, king of the crossword puzzle and one of the greatest storytellers imaginable." He lived an abundant life marveling at this wonderful world. He will be greatly missed. A private celebration of Howard's life will be held in Connecticut at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pulmonary Rehab Clinic at F.F. Thompson Health. You may donate online at http://www.thompsonhealth.com/FFThompsonFoundation/ Donating.