Harold Hoskins Obituary

Harold K. Hoskins
Feb 15,1927-May 1, 2012
Resident of Danville
Lt. Colonel and Tuskegee Airman Harold K. Hoskins was born February 15, 1927 in Big Sandy, Texas after graduation, he enlisted in the US Army, and quickly followed his passion for flying at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.
The Tuskegee Airman were considered pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement and paved the way for African American pilots. Throughout his illustrious military career, he served in three wars including World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. In 1971, he retired from Travis Air Force Base as a Lieutenant Colonel, U.S.A.F.
Harold continued his work in public service, earning a Masters of Public Administration from Cal State University. Harold was the Assistant Director of Student Services for the University and was a pioneer in the development, and management of student housing.
Culminating his lifetime of public service, Harold was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal from President George W. Bush on March 29th, 2007, at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. He was also an active member of the Diablo Black Men's Group, and assisted in raising thousands of dollars for college scholarships for
underprivileged youth.
Lieutenant Colonel Harold Hoskins passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 1, 2012, leaving behind a long legacy of service to his country, commitment to education, and an eternal dedication to the community and to his loving family. We are honored to celebrate a life well lived.
Services will be held at Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church, 9015 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon on Saturday May 5, 2012 starting with visitation at 10AM and followed by the service at 11AM. Interment will be private at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine, CA.

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Published by Contra Costa Times on May 4, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Harold Hoskins

8 Entries

Efren Cruz

August 16, 2012

I was a young student at CSUH when I met Harold. He was wise, smart, and I learned lessons from him. Many of the lessons I apply to this day. I am deeply sorry for your father's passing. I will pray for him and you. God Bless.--Efren

Elaine Hartwig

May 14, 2012

Dear Lynne,

I had the pleasure of knowing your father, when he was on staff, at Cal State Hayward as the Director of Housing. For awhile, he wore 2 hats, also acting as Interim Director of Career Planning and Placement, where I worked as a career counselor. I have fond memories of him and was always impressed with his professionalism, regard for others, and devotion to his family. Harold was one of a kind and will be missed by many, I am certain. Please accept my condolences to you and to the entire family at this difficult time. Best regards,

Oscar & Madeline Ray

May 7, 2012

Rose,Kelly and Lynne

Please know our loving thoughts and prayers embrace you during this difficult time.

Russell Simmons

May 6, 2012

Rose, Kelly, and Lynne,

I cannot express the emotions that I felt when I was told of Uncle Harold's condition, and then two days later of his passing. "Uncle Harold was one of the finest men that I have known in my lifetime. When he spoke, his words commanded respect and attention. His actions spoke louder than his words. The lives he touched will forever be influenced by the time the Lord gave us with him.

Our Sincerest Condolences,

Russell, Stephen, and Anthony

Kim

May 5, 2012

Ever met a Real Hero? I have..my Godfather. He held me at my christening and chuckled at my first experience with an earthquake,then as a Tuskegee Airman,was honored with a Congressional Gold Medal. He experienced three wars;WW2,Korean Conflict,Vietnam,but with my Dad dying almost 35 yrs ago, the "Colonel" was there to give me gratefully an open home to visit, guidance, and many, many memories. The Christmas holidays...summer vacations....a moonlit walk across the Golden Gate Bridge....visit to the redwoods...my first encounter with Dim Sum in San Fran's Chinatown( he told me not to ask what was in the pouches)and of course that laugh. When I decided to drive US#1 up the coast from L.A. to Danville alone, he called me every hour or so to make sure I was OK. Even at my age and so many years gone he was still the "Colonel", his "I mean business voice" could still intimidate me. A little notoriety gained since "Red Tails", as all the Airmen have justly deserved ..mob scene at a theater I'm told at one point - but always the Humility....My Uncle Harold died suddenly and peacefully...a life well lived...he was quite a man....I will miss him.... My Hero....

Tim Brandon

May 4, 2012

Thank you Lynn and Troy for sharing your dad with us! This was a man who was a humble hero.........I can truly say that I was blessed to talk to Harold one on one on many occasions, I can say that I hugged a hero....and he would always laugh at my jokes.....as a black male I looked up to Harold and I will miss his infectious laugh.......God is Good and Harold is in Heaven! My family will always love and remember this hero

Roye L&Linda Bowie

May 4, 2012

Deepest Sympathy to the Hoskins family.Our prayers are with you at this time.
From his relatives in Big Sandy, Texas

May 4, 2012

Sincer condolences to the Hoskins family. Mr.Hoskins,was not only a pioneer but a true role model for all man kind. I thank him and men like him who speak through their work, that is ok not to live the stereotype. May God Bless and Rest in Eternal Peace.

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