John (Gary) A. Howe, Jr. passed away in Paris Texas on April 24th, 2020 at age 73. Gary is preceded in death by his parents John & Ethelyn Howe and his brother Bruce E. Howe. Gary is survived by Gail, his wife of 54 years, daughter & son-in-law Carol & William Collins, grandson Sam Collins of Paris Texas. Through marriage he was blessed with granddaughter Kimberly (Collins) Koleck & grandson William (Trey) Collins III of Corpus Christi Texas. Brother Kenneth W. Howe of Belkamp Maryland.
Gary was born on March 30th, 1947 in Hempsted New York. He graduated East Meadow High School class of 1965 and on April 17th, 1966 married his wife Gail. In 1966 he joined the US Army and pursued a career in Air Traffic. In 1968 his army career took him to Fort Richardson Alaska. Upon discharge in 1969 he was employed by the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller. His first assignment with the FAA took him and his family to a remote bush station in McGrath, Alaska. He continued with the FAA until late 1981. In the early 80’s he built and owned Wizard Car Wash in Anchorage Alaska. Upon retirement in 2006 Gary moved with all his family to Paris Texas. While in Alaska he was an avid salmon fisherman. He took pride in teaching his little girl and later his grandson how to fish. Gary always welcomed family and friends to visit Alaska and share his love for the beautiful sights and his favorite fishing spots.
Gary would love this sentiment from an old Alaskan Bush Pilot friend “Tail winds and blue skies!”
Cremation was under the care and direction of Bright-Holland Funeral Home.
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfunralhome.com
