HOWARD BENEDICT Obituary

BENEDICT, HOWARD JEFFREY March 7, 1945 to Feb. 7, 2012 Howard was born in Pasadena, Ca., although they moved every couple years, as Howard Sr. was an officer in the U.S. Air Force. Younger brother Mike was born in Formosa and older brother Chuck was born in New York. When Howard was 10 and Howard Sr. had died, Betty raised the three boys in Clairemont, Ca., which overlooks Mission Bay. Her career and means of supporting the family was mostly as a nurses aide. Sisters Charlene (Jones) Rhinehart and Elinor (Jones) Taylor helped with their care as well. This was such a magical area to grow up in, as it was so near the Pacific Ocean. Howard told me his love of the sea began when he asked his Mother to take him down to visit the site of a recent shark attack, near La Jolla. From then on everything he was interested in, revolved around being in the ocean. He became fascinated with free-diving and spearing big fish in his teens and landed a job with Chuck Nicklin, at The Diving Locker in P.B. In typical Howard fashion, he went all out with this sport and carved the most beautiful wood spear guns ever seen and crafted the metal pieces for them himself. He was encouraged to use his artistic talents, by a fellow spear fisherman named Wayne who was a dentist, to enter college, and so Howard did. He specialized in the field of cosmetic dentistry and had his practice at an office on 101 in Leucadia, Ca. for over 25 years. He was admired for his skills in creating beautiful healthy smiles, but envied even more for his ability to combine ocean sports and travel, along with managing a successful career. He had been a graduate of Madison High, San Diego State and USC. Howard also contributed his success at becoming a dentist, to West Leffingwell, as he was the dentist to give him his start in the little round brick building, in Cardiff in the 1970s, by allowing him to use his office during the evening hours. He followed that casual schedule for his whole career. This was the best thing he could have set-up, as it facilitated his healthy life style and interests in long board and tow-in surfing, free diving, windsurfing, bike riding and sailing. During the years he lived on his sailboat, the G.V.Black, he would always say to me, in a sweeping motion with his arms across Oceanside Harbor "Life is good" when you have this for your backyard! Everyday was wonderful to him, every person he met was the best person you could ever possibly meet, every wave epic. He was incredibly positive about all things. You were instantly swept up into his enthusiasm for most things ocean related. We (Jennifer and Howard) traveled in our early years together in a humble camper usually to Baja, with the Barstows, Mosels and Grahams. Later to many always surf related exotic destinations. He charged though life with extreme energy and expertise, and had a story to tell about them all, embellishing only occasionally and always ready for the next adventure. He lived life to it's fullest, his motto to me, he'd laugh and say "Everything in excess, nothing in moderation" all in a healthy, "Summers Day" kind of way. The real thrill of his life was born on October 31, 1988. Having Bridgett was the best thing that ever happened to him, of course. They surfed together and he indulged her in "all thing outdoors". He was an enthusiastic "Horse Show Dad". Even as his illness (bv ftd) left him hard-pressed to communicate, I believe his last shining light was her graduation from college, which he was extremely proud of. Immense gratitude to Tom and Marie Hanly and Jeff Dowell for their many Las Pulgas bike rides and Batiquitos Lagoon walks, his last four years. Most recently their care with Howard's well being Dr. Glenn Soppe and Dr. Gregory Mattson. In the end, Mike Benedict's kindness in caring for him his last days on earth.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Feb. 19, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
for HOWARD BENEDICT

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Rest in peace, dear Howard . . . I have wonderful memories of the times we shared together during our high school years.
- Sandy

Sandy Matthews

February 17, 2013

traps y pipes crew

February 12, 2013

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

February 12, 2013

hard to believe it has been a year since howard's passing..when i surf pipes y traps or tripes..i think of him and the others burried at sea there..to many to list......we miss you!!terry & sally prettyman

February 11, 2013

Howard was a humble & unassuming gentleman. Someone that I looked up to as a kid surfing in Encinitas. Someone I respected when I became an adult. Someone you never forget. Pure class.

Jerry Hall

February 10, 2013

WE NEVER FORGET THE SPECIAL PEOPLE WE'VE KNOWN ALONG THE WAY, NO MATTER HOW MANY YEARS GO BY..more years than i can remember.. back to the 60's.. when we were all young.. and life was days at the cove, the dinners each week.. the tall tales and friendship.. tho sad to hear that howard is gone, i smile to know his whole life was filled with that same joy and fun and friendship.. and i'll smile each time i hear his name or think of him..
thoughts and prayers to his loved ones.. how blessed we all are to call him a friend.
barbara caruso

March 27, 2012

Just received the news of Howard's passing today and am heartbroken. Howard and I were high school classmates, friends, diving & surfing buddies. We were together last in 1974 when he came to Hawaii and we surfed the North Shore & Kaui. We (the Diving Locker youngsters) & surfing crew loved him dearly. Howard embodied what I've come to know as bodhichitta, a truly compassionate, gentle human being. Gassho, buddy.

Ron Hough

March 17, 2012

Some of my best memories are of Howard and myself racing down a Baja beach in a dunebuggy searching for empty waves. He always had the perfect Baja frame of mind and I enjoyed our trips together. Most of the gold on my teeth he put there. We have had Super 8 surf movie nights with his Brother Mike, sometimes they would last till very late. Howard would always come up with a great adventure story that would captivate us all.....Sure gonna miss ya Buddy.
Bullfrog Gregg, Scorpion Bay, Baja

Gregg Chelew

March 9, 2012

I just got back from the memorial and paddle out, that was befitting of Howard, although he would probably be a little taken back by all the hoopla. The words by Max Ehrmann were spot on and fit Howard to a "T". He lived life fast but he was a quiet guy. I don't think he ever met any one he did not like and always had good words for everybody and it went the other way also. I will miss his quick, quiet smile, his friendly way, our talks on the table overlooking our local surf break. We talked of daughters and horses and surfing and most other things. Or I would watch him out in the water, sitting outside waiting for the biggest wave which he usually caught, but would always share with a smile. Howard defined the words: waterman and gentleman and he will be missed by many. Now all we have is memories but they are all good ones, Aloha, Howard. Now you are surfing the cloudbreaks in the sky.
My best to Jennifer and Bridget.

Harry Weiss

March 3, 2012

I am honored to have known Howard and to have been mentored by him when I had the honor to be his associate. He was and still is my dental hero. He showed how one can be an excellent committed dentist and still live a happy and active life. He definitely changed my life for the better and I will always be grateful to him. I can't say how saddened I am to learn of his death. Howard was an amazing human being. I can still picture his smile and his laugh. This world was blessed by his presence and at a loss by his departure. My love goes out to Jennifer, Bridget, Mike and Chuck. Mark L. Zila DDS Mammoth Lakes, Ca

mark Zila

March 2, 2012

I think Howard Benedict was a man who was a force of nature in his own right. Howard inspired me always with his kindness and positive attitude and his deep love for his friends. That Thanksgiving in Cabo with Howard & Jen, The Barstows and Paskowitzes and all ranks as one of my favorite days of all time. Thank you my friend for being such a light to so many. You may have been a legend to many but you were also one hell of a nice guy to know.

Pamela Ann Noxon

March 2, 2012

Via Con Dios mi Amigo!! Howard is Legendary and will be missed, but will remain forever in our hearts and the Line up!

JESSE TIMM

March 1, 2012

I saw Howard crossing San Elijo as I was driving home from work one day. I made a point to pull over and reintroduce myself and tell him he was my hero. Caught a big one on Big wed. after dark and dedicated it to him.

jeff timpson

February 28, 2012

There will never be another man quite like Howard. I was fortunate enough to have heard many of Howard's stories of diving surfing and boating. He never told the same story twice. He left us a little early but he rode more and better waves than I will no matter how long I live. I will never forget his generosity in taking me to Todos (on a small day). super fun. rest in peace my friend.

Felipe

February 28, 2012

Howard was a good surfer and a good friend . Thinking of you and your family . Jack

February 28, 2012

Howard was, (and will remain) a legendary waterman. A record-breaking free-diver, who wrestled many a large fish, (including riding the back of a migrating whale!) He was much loved and admired by friends and family. The world will miss him. His love for Nature, the ocean, and surfing was deep...

Tim Hurley

February 28, 2012

Loved to hear his stories about his Bali trips. Howard was and ALWAYS will be a GREAT man.
Surfing in Heaven...can't wait to see it.

Carol Wisniewski

February 28, 2012

I'll never forget meeting you and Dr Barstow in the halls of USC dental school. With your embroidered bell-bottom jeans,long hair and handle bar mustaches,I knew you were from home. You two kept me sane and helped me get through to graduation. Working with Howard those evenings at West's office was another lifetime ago. And so very different than practicing dentistry today. But your light never stopped shining, Howie, and now it illuminates the angels. Good Times! I'm sure we will meet again. love...

dohna gregston

February 28, 2012

We will remember Howard forever! Our dentist for years, such talented man, surfing, diving, dentistry. Thinking of Jennifer and Bridget during this time. This must have been a very long hard road... much love to you and with the fondest of memories and love,
Susie Nancarrow

Susie Nancarrow

February 28, 2012

Howard is a great brother. Spent a lot of time surfing and windsurfing with him. He was my dentist too. Incredible waterman. I will surly miss him. Got to spend some time with him 4 months ago. Priceless. Keep surfing Howard. Love ya. Joe Blair

February 27, 2012

We shared numerous days of surfing with Howard at the Pipes break..I am sure we speak for many local folk, in which, Howard graced our presence in the line up ..what a sweet, generous soul he was..in & out of the water..i am sure heaven has welcomed him with open arms...he is greatly missed..

Sally & Terry Prettyman

February 27, 2012

It was an honor and a privalidge for me to have known Howard. He will be greatly missed by all of us that considered him to be their friend.
I thank him also, for the deep interest and support that he would give to his next door neighbors in Cabo, my lovely daughter and son in law, Amy and Ryan. Along with Jennifer, he had a very positive influence in their Baja life!
Hang Ten my friend!

Dana Gavis

February 26, 2012

RIP, Howard. I was one of his patients in the little round brick building, in Cardiff in the 1970s. A great dentist, a great guy! My thoughts are with you, Jennifer and Bridget.

Nancy Gillespie

February 25, 2012

I actually looked forward to "going to the dentist" when I first met Howard in the early 70's. Evening appointments in the little round brick building in Cardiff..how cool was that? Best of all was Howard's gentle touch, passion for his work and sincere concern for his patients. It was my pleasure and honor to be one of his patients for all of those years until his retirement. He was truly one of kind. Blessings to his family and friends.

Kim Suttle

February 24, 2012

Will always think fondly of Howard. He was our wonderful dentist for many years, loved the evening appointments!! Howard was a pretty good dancer ... he boogied at quite a few of the father/daughter Girl Scout dances.
He will be missed.

Mike and Kathy Myer

February 22, 2012

Rick & I knew Howard from the 70's We were good friends of his brother Chuck, We are very sorry for your loss

February 22, 2012

Jennifer and Bridget, we will always remember you and Howard during the windsurfing days, with little kids in tow! Blessings to you and your family, Marsha Hetrick and family

Marsha Hetrick

February 21, 2012

February 20, 2012

What can one say about Howard's life, style and achievements that has not already been published in several magazines and newspaper articles ...? He was a GREAT GUY! He had that wonderfully serene all knowing Guru like countenance that embraced all of us who were fortunate enough to know him. His adventures in, and accomplishments with, our Mother Ocean were legion and the embodiment of dreams that many could only hope for.

His passing is like the most beautiful sunset, punctuated with a big, grinning, thumbs up of a green flash..... You did it all my friend and you did it right.

George Kuznecovs < Molokai

February 20, 2012

Howard was our friend and dentist for nearly 20 years. He was one of the most charismatic people we've ever known. He was witty, focused, and incredibly skilled in everything he did. His passion for life was infectious. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers to Jennifer, Bridgett, and his brothers, Mike and Chuck.

Cathie & Bill Canepa

February 20, 2012

Howard was a soft spoken highly respected presence in the line up he frequented near his home. Conversations between sets touched on free diving, surf trips, and family. What an honor to have known him.

Scott Gessner

February 20, 2012

Thanks Howard. Dentist to the Sylvada boys and inspiration to every waterperson. Many blue rooms my friend, go easy.

peter sylvada

February 20, 2012

We love you Chuck. Thinking of you
Steph, Jeff , Abbey and Max

Stephanie Cohen

February 19, 2012

I knew Howard from teenage years. A group of us hung out, his brother
Chuck, Sandy, Wayne L., Marbianne, Bill, and many others. Sandy was his girlfriend but all us girls had a crush on Howard. A great and fun person. So very sorry to read of his passing. Hard to believe. May his spirit be joyous.

Debra Ehrlich (Kibble)

February 19, 2012

Howard was my dentist in the early 70's in that wonderful round building, all the way until he sold his practice to Bogdan (whom I still go to). I was always saddened to hear how these last few years have treated him. Rest in peace Howard, blessings to all who knew and loved him. He touched so many lives.

Judi Biller

February 19, 2012

I met Howard in dental school. He was known as the "hand god" in our class due to his beautifully crafted work in the lab as well as the clinic. Years later I would see that same artistry and style in the water when we surfed. His serenity and talents were inspiring to others. His absence is deeply felt.

Mark Haeger

February 19, 2012

I knew Howard from our teen days His @ the Diving Locker, mine At San Diego Divers Supply and our years @san Diego State. We would bump into one another on occassion @ the Islands and off La Jolla. Am shocked and saddened to hear of his passing.

Wayne kanakaris

February 19, 2012

Howard was my dentist from the days of Cardiff office and he took out my wisdom teeth! It was quite a drill session and he was awesome. I have to say that Howard spent as much time with preventative care as anything else, which showed that he genuinely cared. I wear Howard's crowns....proudly. I am so sorry for this loss and pray for all who loved him. Rest easy Dr. Benedict. God bless you forever. Diane Stoecker.

Diane Stoecker

February 19, 2012

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Lance Smith

February 19, 2012

I've known Howard since he was a teenager, scuffing his toes in the sand when speaking with a "grown up" (translation "old") woman, through the diving community years at the Diving Locker, then he became grown up and was my adored dentist. He was an artist with his dentistry and I have the smile to prove it. I loved seeing the pictures and hearing the stories about Bridgett and have a vague memory of his pulling her around in a red wagon (could be making that one up). His passing was a loss to his many friends. My most sincere condolences to his family. He is missed. With respect and love,

Judy Alden

February 19, 2012

Jennifer, you won't remember me, but you did my nails so many years ago when you were first dating Howard. I was looking for a new dentist and you recommended I try Howard, and Lena has been cleaning me teeth ever since. I have followed your life together including all the highlights of your daughter. So it was with much sadness that I read of Howard's death.
I know you have many friends who will see you through this difficult time. My hope is that you find peace and joy again in the memories of the love that sustained you through all of the years. Kindly, Patricia Wahle

Patricia WAhle

February 19, 2012

Howard became my dentist some 25-30 years ago.
We would talk about surfing and diving, well he would, my mouth was always num and drooling .LOL..
I was disapointed when Howard left his practice, but am glad to know he pursued his ocean interests with all his passion!
I ran into Howard a couple of times at La Pastora Baja. It was funny to be 1,000 miles south into Baja on a surf trip and to run into my dentist riding the same waves with his bud Doyle. GOOD MEMORIES !! Grasshopper ;)

Barton Biller

February 19, 2012

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