Howard Waskow

Howard in many ways saved my life by helping me reveal to myself who I truly was. Even in the aftermath of his counseling and tutelage we enjoyed a few years of golfing together and conversations about life in general. Blazers included. I even helped him sell his precious old nova to a friend of mine who was inspired to renovate it. I only know of Howards passing because I wanted to find out what had become of him over the years. That search led me to his obituary. I hope this note finds...

Dear Grey,
We were shaken to learn about Howard's death just recently. Although it had been quite a short time that we had the chance to work with the two of you, we deeply appreciated Howard's wisdom, lively intellect, and kindness. Your loss must be tremendous.

I just came across a reference to "the late Howard Waskow" and looked him up online. I knew Howard at the Portland Scribe in the '70's but hadn't seen him in years. Howard was a super smart, funny, generous guy. He contributed a lot to Portland in many ways and will be missed.

Dear Grey and family:

Howard was part of my life when I was still "Upward Bound." That time set the foundation for the life I now live. I owe some of what I have been, am, and will become to Howard.

I am sorry for your loss and send to you my sincere condolences.

Howard was a mensch, mentor and a man I dearly love, despite his deep love of baseball.

Howard was always truly present. The circles he participated in are deep and wide. From intentional communities, restaurateur and therapist, many have been a part of the communities he participated in and have shared his love and wisdom.

He did all this and more with a positive humor that nudged the conversation and the listener further along towards the goal of awareness.

How blessed I was to know this man. Howard was my therapist for many years, and his kindness and his wisdom will be with me forever. Knowing him has made me stronger. I miss his voice, his laugh, and his hugs. But I will always recall his encouragement and his optimism. My sympathy to all his family and friends. I know we will remember him always.

Howard and I met only a few times back in the early 90's or maybe late 80's when I was deep into men's liberation work. We were sympatico on so many levels, yet our paths did not cross again. I say this with much regret. The book he co-wrote with Arthus, Becoming Brothers, had a huge impact on me as my brother and I have never become brothers in the way I wished. May his memory be for a blessing for all who were touched by him. May we carry this memory forward!

I came to know Howard through the relationship of him being my therapist, Through that journey we became friends. He was a friend whose counsel I valued and learned a great deal from. He was large hearted, wise in many ways, hopeful and sharing.

I am sorry to hear of his passing and extend my sympathies to all those close to him.

Howard and I were friends growing up on Cottage Avenue in Baltimore. He was Big Howard and I was Little Howard. I always enjoyed going to his house which was always warm and comfortable. After a feverish game of ping pong, we could relax over a glass of cold milk provided by his Mom, Honey. I still have warm memories of our childhood and extend my sympathy to his family.