Richard Carl Howard (AKA Dickie or Rich), age 53 died comfortably at home in Watertown, NY on March 10, surrounded by loved ones and under the care of Hospice.
He leaves his significant other Susanne Jenness of 23 years; his five daughters, Jessica Moore, Nichole Howard, Tiffany Robbins, Kaitlyn Steiner and Mackenzie Howard; nine grandchildren; his mother, Nancy Howard; three brothers, Charles, Robert and John Howard; three sisters, Cynthia Downey, Cathy Ayres and Michelle Patchin; several nieces and nephews; and many close friends.
His father, Charles Thomas Howard, passed away in 2000 and his Niece, Tracy Ayers, passed away in 2012.
Born November 23, 1961 in Watertown, NY to Charles T. and Nancy A. Howard. He attended school in the Watertown City School District and joined the military during his senior year. He was stationed in Frankfort Germany from 1979-1980. He then spent a short while in Rochester, NY and Ocala FL. He ultimately returned to his home in Watertown, NY where he spent the remainder of his life.
He worked many jobs in his life from retail to construction and everything in between but his favorite by far was his work at the Burrville Cider Mill. Throughout his ten years he worked every job that aided in the production of Cider. It was a job where he was treated more like family than an employee. He grew to love every one of the Steiners and they held a special place in his heart.
His passion was always playing guitar, drums and singing. He was a member of many local bands throughout his life but his favorite was his own band "Last Chance". His hobbies included camping at Happy Hollow Campground, fishing and of course playing the guitar and listening to his stereo. He loved old Western movies, the game Trouble and old time Country music.
A private memorial will be held in the Summer to celebrate his life. Arrangements are being handled by the Northridge Cremation Chapel owned and operated by Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service Inc.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to either Hospice of Watertown, NY or for his youngest daughter, Mackenzie Howard, c/o United Neighbors Federal Credit Union 605 Coffeen Street Carbone Bros. Plaza, Watertown, New York 13601.
And in his words, "friggin' goddamnit that was one hell of a life!"