- Date Of Birth: October 25, 1927
- Date Of Death: August 18, 2011
- State: Arizona
Howard K. Howard (H.K.), former Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transamerica Airlines, passed away suddenly on August 18, 2011. He was 83 years old. Howard was a larger than life presence and the loss of his irrepressible wit and astute counsel leaves an incredible void in the lives of his loving family and innumerable friends.
He was born in Paterson, New Jersey on October 25, 1927. As a young adult, he joined the Merchant Marines during World War II and later became a submariner in the US Naval Reserve. After a brief stint as a police officer in New Jersey, his business acumen was recognized and he was introduced to the aviation industry.
From there, his career took him to Overseas Holdings in Shannon, Ireland and finally to Saturn Airways in 1968. He became President of Saturn, which merged with Trans International Airlines and ultimately Transamerica Airlines, the world’s largest charter airline.
Howard was a life member of the National Defense Transportation Association. In this capacity he served on its Airlift Committee and the advisory council to the US Air Force’s Commander, consulting on matters of nation defense for 25 years. His love of aviation also led him to get a private pilot’s license and enjoy adventures in his own aircraft.
He retired in 1991 to enjoy life with the love of his life, Peggy, who predeceased him in 2001. They split their time between their ranch in Potter Valley, California, their getaway in Key Largo, Florida and their home in Alameda.
His CEO persona re-emerged at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, where he played a pivotal role in brokering the buyout of the existing club and making it a private, member-owned retirement community. In recent years, some of his happiest moments were at Ocean Reef, playing golf with his beloved buddies with a joyful but competitive spirit.
Howard was as charming as he was successful. Whether he was socializing at the country club or swinging an axe in the country, he was surrounded by great friends and lots of laughter. He truly enjoyed life to the fullest and made the most of every day.
He leaves his sister Alice Westervelt of New Jersey and his three children: Susan Howard, Allison Howard, and Bud (Lori) Howard, all of Colorado, and three beloved grandchildren: Laura Nanos, Rachel Howard and Alex Howard. He will be deeply missed by his niece Candy (Joe) Habich, nephews Andrew Kasalo and Richard Kasalo, along with many other nieces, nephews and dear, dear friends and neighbors.
We miss you already.
Mail in:
American Heart Association
Lockbox 30947, P.O. Box 60000 San Francisco, CA. 94160
(Phone: 800-242-8721)
