Robert Howe

It is with great sadness the family of Robert Howe announces his passing at the age of 76.  Bob is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sandra; son, Todd; daughter, Laura; and grandchildren Claire and Abigail.  He was preceded in death by his stepbrother, Andy.

Bob was born in Chicago to Thomas J. and Mary H. Howe. Sadly, his father died when Bob was 11 months old and his mother subsequently married Andrew Kosick, Sr. who had a son Andrew Kosick, Jr.  The Kosick family warmly welcomed Bob and as Andy and Bob were close in age, they enjoyed their formative years together at the Neighborhood Boys Club of Chicago and attended Lane Tech High School in Chicago.

After being discharged from the Army he moved to Long Beach California in 1967 and enjoyed reconnecting with his fun-loving Aunt May, Uncle Bob and their family. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics at California State University, Long Beach.

In 1973 he married the love of his life who is also from Chicago at Wayfarer’s Chapel in Palos Verdes, California, and in 1976 welcomed Todd and in 1978 welcomed Laura. Bob was dedicated to his longtime career at Intex Corporation where he was involved in various aspects of its business.  The family settled in Rossmoor in 1983 and Bob loved the community and home he helped build there, including maintaining and enjoying their backyard.

Bob loved to plan family vacations, initially enjoying group camping with friends and later family trips to Europe and the East and West Coasts.  His favorite was the beauty of Yosemite.  Bob and Sandy had fun hosting many great dinner parties and in summer enjoying their patio that overlooked the backyard.

While diagnosed with Parkinson’s six years ago he and Sandy continued to enjoy domestic and international travel. They enjoyed an evening tradition of playing Gin Rummy (he usually won) and had monthly bridge and Texas Hold ‘Em Poker games with friends.   

His personality was at times subdued and quiet, but he had a big heart and was the epitome of responsibility and steadfastness; he was a man of his word and looked to help others.  His greatest happiness was enjoying his loving family.

In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in Bob’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org/ways-to-give.

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