Obituary of Charles R. Howard

Charles R. Howard
May 8, 1948 - February 1, 2019

Charles R. Howard, 70, of Pine Bush, NY passed away on February 1, 2019, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 8, 1948 in Brooklyn, NY to Charles R. and Joan L. (Stegeman) Howard. He graduated from Garden School in Queens, NY in 1966 and entered the United States Air Force, where he served until his Honorable Discharge in 1970. Charlie is a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving with the 306th Bombardment Wing Strategic Air Command. During his tour, he was stationed in Guam, Thailand and Okinawa, Japan.
After serving his country overseas, Charlie began his career as a tractor trailer driver in New York City. In 1979, he accepted a transfer and moved his young family upstate, eventually settling in Pine Bush, where he and his wife, Lynn, enjoyed many wonderful years together raising children and doting on grandchildren. He retired in 2008, giving him the much anticipated time to spend with his family.
Charlie is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 45 years, Lynn (White) of Pine Bush; his adoring children, Kimberly Fenical and her husband Albert of Pine Bush, Jennifer and her partner Brandon Benson of Woodcliff Lake, NJ, Andrew and his partner Megan Moniz of Pine Bush, and Robert and his wife Shanna of Topsham, ME; and his precious grandchildren, Conner Fenical, Charlotte Benson, Jorge Benson-Cervantes, Ryan and Molly Howard and Claire. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles R. and Joan L. Howard.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. John Ferguson for his 15 years of the kindest and most compassionate care. “Charlie considered you a true and treasured friend and trusted you implicitly. We are forever grateful for your role in his life and your support during his final hours. Your presence provided all of us with great peace and comfort. We are eternally grateful. On this day, the honor and privilege were ours.” Visitation will be held on Thursday February 7, 2019 from 2-4 & 7-9pm at the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc.1525 Burlingham Road Pine Bush, NY. Funeral services will be offered on Friday February 8, 2019 at 11am at the funeral home. Burial will take place with full military honors at New Prospect Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Charles R. Howard Memorial Contribution Fund to benefit the American Lung Association. Donations can be made at http://action.lung.org/site/TR?pxfid=150216&pg=fund&fr_id=1080 To leave an online condolence please  visit  www.wmgaganfuneralhome.com Arrangements entrusted to the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc.