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Howard Staley Obituary
Born on May 30, 1923, in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania, he served in the U.S. Army in World War II. His education included an undergraduate degree in economics from the University of Pittsburgh and a law degree from Harvard University.
He moved to Juneau in 1960. He so enjoyed the beauty, the lifestyle and the opportunities of Alaska that he spent the next 57 years of his life here. He enjoyed fishing, canoeing, piloting a small plane and the endless summer evenings. He even enjoyed the snow.
After stints as assistant attorney general and prosecutor, he became a partner of the Fairbanks law firm of Merdes, Schiable, Staley and DeLisio (a precursor of CSG Inc.) in July, 1966. His colleagues, fellow litigants and the court held Howard in high esteem. He retired in 1993, and spent much of the rest of his life traveling, bicycling and reading. History, biographies, and politics were favorite subjects, although he would read anything that caught his eye.
Howard met his wife, Olive, on a boat to Kos in Greece. Olive is from Ireland. Howard enjoyed annual trips to visit Olive's family in Ireland, where he grew to know and love as many friends and family members as he had in Fairbanks.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Olive O'Donoghue-Staley; children Michael and Laura Staley, of Seattle; and the Anthony nieces and nephews of Pennsylvania. He was predeceased by son Douglas Eric Staley and sister Jean Anthony. He will be much missed.
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Memories and Condolences
for Howard Staley
6 Entries
Kelli Vey
January 31, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. We will miss his weekly visits to Blockbuster Video looking for the great new Indy movies for he and his wife, Olive. -College Blockbuster family
Brent Rodenberger
January 16, 2017
There is much I did not know about Howard Staley, for I met him as a youthful octogenarian, and his humble character kept him from sharing tales and adventures of his past. But to learn through his tribute of soldier, pilot, Harvard student, traveler, lawyer, reading enthusiast, outdoorsman, loving father and husband I find it all fits well with the gentle man I knew and loved.
I will miss, immensely, standing with him on the green lawn of summer chatting about the latest movie or television series, a favorite restaurant, the splash of colors in his flowerbed, or how last evening he sat on his back deck for a spell and was entertained by the resident hawk's shrill cry and acrobatic flight.
My thoughts with you, my friend Howard, and your lovely wife Olive; it's true: the time we have together is never quite enough.
Dee
January 15, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I hope that the promise in 1 Thessalonians 4:14 can bring comfort. Knowing that there is a hope for our love ones lost in death can be reassuring.
January 15, 2017
Howard was a man of great character and dignity. He was loved dearly as my friend. He was kind, thoughtful, intelligent and articulate. He always had time for a conversation, and a laugh. He always had time to throw a ball for Emma and give her a little loving pet, and she adored him with all her fur. His smile and his hugs will be missed,
As a man who loved to travel, Howard may your journey be filled with beautiful views. Save a spot for Em and me when we meet again to be with you, to laugh, hug and catch up.... Ill bring a ball! Ill be there for Olive for anything. Peace be with you!
Leroy Cook
January 14, 2017
Howard, in addition to being a competent attorney, was a gentleman who represented Alaska and the U.S. well, wherever he traveled.
Thank you Olive for all the happy years you gave him.
Catherine & Eddie Brosnan
January 14, 2017
Olive, Our heartfelt sympathy to you on Howard's passing. May he Rest in Peace. Loving thoughts and Prayers for you both. Catherine & Eddie Brosnan
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