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Howard Lieberman
Howard Lieberman
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Howard Lieberman Obituary
Unexpectedly on Saturday, April 7, 2007. Beloved husband of Kathleen Treleani; father of Deborah Lieberman and the late Mark Lieberman; stepfather of Christopher, Patrick and Jonathan Treleani; brother of Herbert Lieberman; grandfather of Oliver, Kye and Christopher; brother in law of Anna Lisiecki. Howard was a Professor of Art at CCAC and a nationally known pencil artist. He was well known for his love of animals especially cats and was a respected member of Butler Cat Fanciers and American Tabby and Tortie. A remembrance gathering will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to the Animal Friends, 2643 Penn Ave. Pgh, PA 15222. Arrangements by GEORGE A. THOMA FUNERAL HOME, INC. 10418 Perry Hwy. Wexford 15090
Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb
75 Entries
Kelli Dresden
June 21, 2025
When I was going to Michigan State, I decided to go to Ann Arbor Art Festival. This was in 1993 or 1994 I think. The one artist who left an impression was Howard Lieberman. I stared at his pencil drawing of a fire escape for over an hour. Unfortunately, I was a poor college student and $55 was too much at the time. Over the years, I tried to find him and his art but I couldn't remember his name. I called the art festival and I was always told that they didn't have the names of previous artists. One day I looked on their website and FINALLY, they had lists of artists. I looked up each and every one until I found him! I'm very sorry for the family's loss! His talent left a true impression, I am still trying to find the fire escape to this day.
Timothy Aymar
February 6, 2008
To find out at this late a date has nearly knocked me over. Howard was one of the finest artists who ever lived, and I learned more about art from him than anyone else. My skill at drawing was improved a hundredfold due to his influence. The Three Rivers Art Festival will never be the same without a visit to his booth to say "hi" on a windy day. God Bless his family.
Melissa Beck
October 26, 2007
I just returned to CCAC after earning a degree in graphics in 2001. I was heart broken to hear of Professor Liebermans passing. He was always a mentor to me, guiding me and praising me whenever I needed it. I'll miss him, my condolences to your family.
Bill Huber
June 26, 2007
Dear Kathy,
Am so very saddened to hear of Howard's passing. My deepest condolences to you and your family. I fondly remember the many funny and interesting conversations I had with Howard at your house. He will be missed.
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Chris and Donna Jarvis-Miller
June 12, 2007
Kathy -
We just learned of Howard's passing. We are in shock and can only imagine what you are going through at this time. Know that we valued and continue to value all that we shared with you and Howard (or as Chris affectionally called him - Howie). He gave so much of himself to others - I know that Chris really loved him like a brother - he talked about him constantly and was always sharing stories about him with our friends. He was so happy to know a kindred spirit. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you!
Lisa Helfrick (McGregor)
May 30, 2007
Howard was by far one of my most favorite teachers of all times. (Not many art professors allow you to create what you want however you want) But seriously, that just compliments how his personality was. Pretty much just be yourself, express yourself how you feel, and don't worry about what others say/think. That's more than just an art lesson; but more a lesson in life. Whether or not he realized it, he really touched a bunch of lives, and made outlook on life more simple/great. He and his artwork will be greatly missed.... I hope you're doodling your heart out up there!!!!!!!!!
deborah lieberman
May 24, 2007
Dad, It is hard to belive you are not going to be here to see the boys grow up. There never seems to be enough time with someone you love. but you have truly help shape me to be the person I am today.I always loved our talks about art. I will miss you more than I can express in words. My boys love you sooooooo much and we think of you every day. You have always inspired me to belive in myself. I know you have touched many lives and you will be missed. I am going to go now and Listen to some Bob Dylan, of course I will be thinking of you. My Father and dear Friend. love you Deb.
David Haun
May 21, 2007
Dear Kathy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are thinking about you. Hugs, David & Travis (Steven-David)
Allan Teger
May 7, 2007
Kathy and family -
So sorry to hear of Howard's passing. He was one of the really good guys - a great artist whose work always raised the level of any show in which he participated; and a sweet gentle person who made a great impression on me. He was a person who made the world a better and more beautiful place for his having lived.
tamara cicogna
May 6, 2007
this is incredibly hard to express the great impact in a short time that mr. lieberman made on me
as a student of his he inspired me in several way his willingness to be
all he was
his incredible love for his wife and cats
gave me such hope and happiness
i once asked him why do you wear colored glasses how can you see our art he laughed and said " thats why i can compliment everybody's work " and he did find something in each of us
he made you feel your art potential was unlimited
he taught me how to look at the world with different eyes
i know i will see the world differently for the rest of my life i will carry the great gift of knowing him
somewhere i heard that that success in life was measured by the how much you inspired and touched people
he will be remembered by all who knew and their were many this was an extremely successful man
i will miss him so
i gave him seeds for a cat garden shortly before his death i hope he has on where ever he is thank you howard lieberman it was a privilege to have known you i'll miss you
Steve Oster & Jerry Kithcart
May 6, 2007
Although it has been over a month, Kathy, you are in our thoughts still during the difficult times. He was a wonderful man and is missed.
Mary Dixon
May 6, 2007
I am saddened by Howard's passing and send my condolences also as a former member of the short haired cat showing community and as a fellow artisan (mddogart.com) and as an Ann Arbor resident. His presence will be missed.
Mike and Nancy Strailey
May 3, 2007
Dear Kathy,
The news of Howards' passing saddens us so. It is hard to think about artshows, especially Ann Arbor, without his pithy observations and droll wit, and his glorious drawings! We will miss him. please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Fondly,
toni mann
April 30, 2007
kathy,
we are so very sorry...howard was one my favorite art show people--what a great sense of humor--he will be really missed.
i hope to see you this summer.
love,
toni and jay mann
Kristen Skarada
April 26, 2007
Mr. Lieberlan was by far my favorite professor. I had him for Photography I at CCAC last semester. He saw a lot in me that I hadn't seen in myself for a long time. He truely has touched my life forever and I will take with me all that he has taught. He pushed me to do what I really wanted, because I didn't see it anymore, and for that I am truley grateful. He had a heart of gold and a great passion for art. Mr. Lieberman was not only my Professor but a great friend as well. He will be greatly missed and always remembered. My deepest sympathy's go out to the friends and family and all who have been touched by him.
Adam Kirshenbaum
April 21, 2007
Debbie,
I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I don't know what to say except that
your dad was a sensitive and talented guy, like your brother was. Write
me sometime.
Katherine MacKrell
April 20, 2007
I am very saddened by the news that Mr. Lieberman as passed. I respected him greatly for his talent and his teaching. His classes were a keystone in my education in art and I will miss seeing him drive around town. I always knew if he was around when I saw his bright yellow car.
I send my deepest sympathies to his family.
A student and admirer,
Katherine B. MacKrell
Bob Kurka
April 19, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will miss this gentle man who always called me his friend.
Kristen Mary
April 19, 2007
Words cannot express how deeply saddened I am to hear this bad news. I was a student of Howard's for quite a few classes. My husband and I met in his class almost six years ago. He was an amazing man and a great artist. I still cannot believe we won't be able to stop by the VAC to say hello to him. I remember the first day he got his yellow Saturn SUV with the enormous stuffed animal inside. I still have the picture. Howard, you will be greatly missed by many people. We learned a lot from you and will never forget you, ever!
Kristen & Russ Mary
April 16, 2007
Kathy,
I'm very sorry to hear of Howard's passing. He was an outstanding artist.
Ron Beahn
Boston Mills Artfest
Adele Lamperski-Rutherford
April 16, 2007
Dear Kathy,
I am very sad to hear of Howard's passing. He was a great neighbor on Geyer Road and a genuinely nice man. I will keep you in my prayers.
Jack McFarlane
April 13, 2007
I am so saddened by Howard's passing. He was such a kind soul. The world needs many more people like him. He will be deeply missed by those of us who were fortunate to have known him.
Ron & Janel Pastor
April 13, 2007
Kathy,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. We enjoyed Howard's insight on his Pittsburgh Steelers.
Ron & Janel Pastor
Ross Heastings
April 13, 2007
Howard was my Photography teacher. I'm going to miss him. We would always chat after class about art, society, music...everything. My sympathies go out to his friends and family. I am currently working on an article. His recognition and influence will be heard.
Paul Jay
April 13, 2007
I sit here and watch that little curser blink l l l l l l l What can I say? I think of all the stories we shared over the MANY years we shared an office. Hay Roomie! He'd say when we met, no matter where, in a hall, at a show.
He is missed more than anyone can imagine. Howard once said (and I paraphrase badly) No more can an apple tell you of how it tastes than I can tell you about my Art - than how I can tell you about how I felt about Howard.
Cheers Old Buddy
Dale McQuaid
April 12, 2007
Debbie,
I was shocked to find out your dad died. (Mine died last year.) I was at work on Monday printing the new CCAC catalogues and just had a very quick glimpse of Howard's name listed as teacher of some art classes in the next semester. That night, I went home, opened the paper and there he was again in the obits!!
I only had 2 classes with him in the `80's and didn't fare too well in either, simply because I'm not that creative as far as art is concerned, even though it's one of my fave subjects, but I still looked up to him. His drawings that he used to sell at the arts festival were great!! (Just a thought: maybe you should see about continuing to sell them at this year's festival in his memory.) I'll probably always remember him in his cowboy boots and the saddle he used to keep in his office at school and at his booth at the arts festival.
But, mostly, I was best friends with his son, your brother, Mark, who is also still very sadly missed. I'll bet I think about him at least a few times a month. I seem to remember that he and your dad caused a few sparks of friction to fly from time to time, but, maybe they've patched things up in their hearts over the years and are now making great works of art together. Maybe they are now both working on beautiful skyscapes together for all of down here to admire.
It's starting to become hard to write with all of the wet stuff flooding from my eyes, so, I should end here. If you EVER need someone to talk to, or need a great big hug, I'm here for you, don't be afraid to get in touch with me. I've been wondering how you're doing, too. I hope to see or hear from you soon, Debbie.
Your friend,
Dale "Satch" McQuaid
Pittsburgh, 15215 (Aspinwall)
April 12, 2007
I've lost a brother. We've all lost a good friend and extraordinary talent.
Karen Slemmer
April 12, 2007
Kathy and family,
Reading through the posts it's clear to see the wonderful memories and positive impact Howard's life left with others. He was loved, he loved. He was admired, he admired. He was gifted and he gave.
In my phone conversation with Howard prior to his passing, there was no doubt in my mind how much he loved and admired his wife, family and cats. He spoke of them with much adoration and excitement. He was very proud of them and all their accomplishments.
Howard was a very special, gifted man who didn't often give himself enough credit for his abilities, but who can never be forgotten for them. He will be missed very much by those who knew and loved him.
Jody, I and my family are deeply saddened by your loss. If we can be of any comfort to you and your family in this time of need, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Kipp Dawson
April 12, 2007
With love and in sympathy with your family, on behalf of the teachers and classmates of grandson Oliver, and as a loving colleague of Deborah.
Kathy Davey
April 12, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and preyers are with you and your family,
Vince Ornato Jr.
April 11, 2007
I am so saddened to hear of your loss. I have only fond memories of Howard. My heartfelt condolances. If I can do anything at all, please contact me.
Lorna Friemoth
April 11, 2007
Howard was truly an incredible person, and there will be a hole that cannot be filled by his loss in the cat fancy, art community, and in our hearts.
Kathy, fur-children, friends, and family members; you are in my thoughts and prayers during these trying times.
Whitney Nickel
April 11, 2007
Kathy
I am so sorry to hear about Howard.He was a wonderful person. We will all miss him. GOD BLESS
Ronna, John, Bethany & Phillip Colilla
April 11, 2007
Kathy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. The cat fancy's tremendous loss is certainly heaven's gain. We pray you will find some solace that your cat friends will embrace you.
Cheri Leeman
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy,
We were shocked to hear of Howard's passing. I'll always remember him as wonderfully thoughtful guy who was always willing to help out at cat shows. You are in our prayers.
Cheri Leeman and Melissa Webb
Nancy Schuman
April 11, 2007
Kathy,
My sincere sympathies to you on your loss--what a shock. Let your furry ones help console you.
Nancy Schuman
Ringapurr Cattery
Linda Birkmann
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy and Family. God must be planning something very special that only Howard can help with.
My he find all of his friends waiting by the Rainbow Bridge ready to accompany him into the sunshine.
You are in our prayers.
Deborah Curtis
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy, My sympathies for your loss. The cat and art world will not be the same without Howard.
Deborah Curtis (The Darkside Cattery)
Robert Villamagna
April 11, 2007
Kathy and Family:
Howard will always be the "Mayor of Howiewood" to me, a mystical place where great art is made and cats lead a good life, safe from speeding automobiles and BB guns.
We talked regurlarly about art making, art jurors, and which of us got into an exhibition.... or booted out of one. Howard loved talking about a talented student or a favorite cat. Howard put the term "cat farming" into my vocabulary, and it sounded so much more interesting than just "changing the litter". Howard joined my wife, Chris, and I, and some friends, at the Bob Dylan concert in Washington, PA this past fall. He was so excited, and his laughter and enthusiasm spilled over the rest of us. I will miss walking down the hill at State College and seeing a huge ballerina, fire escape, or self portrait staring back at me. I miss Howard already.
To Kathy, family, and friends of Howard: I wish you all much strength and energy as you
push through this difficult time.
Carolyn Menzel
April 11, 2007
Kathy,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God, your friends and your kitties will help you through this most difficult time.
Carol & Doug Menzel
BlueBijou Chartreux
Laurie Coughlan
April 11, 2007
Kathy,
We will so miss Howard's gentle spirit. My thoughts are with you.
Gail Moser
April 11, 2007
My prayers are with you at this time. May God's peace surround you at this time.
Sean Hogan-Downey
April 11, 2007
Kathy,
How saddened I was to learn of Howard's death and your loss.
He always greeted me and I enjoyed teasing him into a smile at cat shows. He was a gentle soul who added beauty to this world with his gifts. The path before you is a deeply painful one. Know that you have many who care for you and are there to walk beside you....
Vince /Mariane Moleterno/Toth
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy and Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. We will miss Howard's kindness, his friendly smile, his love of cats and especially his love of Kathy. The love of friends in the cat fancy will get you through this.
Melanie Morgan
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy, the world has lost a sense of wonder and beauty with Howard's passing. My heart goes out to you and the furry ones in this time of sorrow. With Sympathy and love, Melanie and the Emau crew
Rick Hoskinson
April 11, 2007
Kathy
Howard was such a great addition to the cat fancy and we will miss his presence at the shows. We all love and support you and I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers!
Let me know if you need anything
Rick Hoskinson
Robert Walton
April 11, 2007
Kathy,
We are truly sorry to hear about Howard. He will be truly missed by all his friends in the Cat Fancy. Linda and I will always remember him and how he always walked behind you at the cat shows on setup morning and pushed the big cart filled with cat cages, toys, food and etc. I will always remember talking to him about the latest litter and which ones he thought were the better kittens in that litter. He truly loved all the cats and kittens.
Bob and Linda Walton
Martha & Norman Auspitz
April 11, 2007
Kathy,
Martha and I are so saddened by this sudden loss. It is hard to imagine that Howard will no longer be with us. We know that words alone cannot assuage your emptiness at this time. I am sure all your cats will be great comfort to you in these stressful times.
Sad regards... Martha and Norman
Sheryl Polikoff
April 11, 2007
Howard was truly one of the gentlest men I have ever known.
I will always remember the way his
face lit up when holding one of my
kittens or talking about his kittens.Kathy, my prayers for peace
are with you and may God Bless you
and grant you peace.
Gene Darrah
April 11, 2007
Kathy---I was shocked and very saddend to hear of Howards passing. I always enjoyed chatting with him as he was one of a kind and I will definitely miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Roberta Weissburg
April 11, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of this terrible loss. Kathy, you and Howard are an inspiration to so many who pursued careers in Art, and seeing you year after year, stalwart and together, creative and dedicated, gave courage in ways you may not have known. Please accept my deep sympathy, with love.
Becky Merbler
April 11, 2007
I was greatly saddened about the passing our Professor Lieberman. I feel this is a great loss not to just CCAC but to everything. I wish his family to have strength and love from friends and family.
Lisa/Jerry Smith/Hamza
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy and Family,
Our condolences go out to you in this time of sorrow. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Lisa Smith
Jerry Hamza
Kris Dakis
April 11, 2007
Kathy,
My heart is heavy for you...
Howard was one with always a kind smile, a generous "hello, how are you?" at the cat shows, his positive energy was contagious...I remember the show the two of you were at when you had your first grand, Howard was a beaming proud "papa".
I always looked forward to seeing the two of you at the shows, you always delighted in seeing my Persians...even though not your breed I looked forward to showing you the "new show baby"
This is a devastating and terrible loss.
If there is anything I can do, please let me know.
Lori McClain
April 11, 2007
Kathy: I am so sorry for your loss. Please know we hold you in our hearts and share your grief.
Kathi Hoos
April 11, 2007
Kathy
I am so very sorry to hear of Howard's death. May the love of friends give you comfort and the love of God give you Peace.
Kathi and Bill Hoos
Blakewood cattery
Beth Holly
April 11, 2007
Kathy: My thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time. Howard will be missed by his cat fancy friends and please know that they will be there to support you in any way.
Jaiymeka Cattery
April 11, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the family a true loss to the cat world.
Teresa Signore
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy and Family:
Edwin and I are so sorry for your loss. Howard was a fixture in the showhalls and he was always bright and cheery. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with you.
Teresa Signore and Edwin Sweeney
Barbara and Chuck Gradowski
April 11, 2007
Dear Kathy and family,
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow. Howard was always so kind and frieindly when we would meet at the cat shows. Although I didn't see him often he was ready with a smile and friendly conversation. His love of art and of the cats as well as his gentle nature always shone through. May the many wonderful memories you have comfort you during this difficult time. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lois Jensen
April 11, 2007
Kathy--please know you are in my prayers. This is such sad news but
God will give you the strength to get through this. I will be in touch with you.
Jennifer Druzisky
April 10, 2007
Howard was a wonderful person and a wonderful friend to everyone. He loved his cats so very much. The world will never be the same without Howard. I will greatly miss seeing him when I go pick up Kathy for cat shows. Rest in peace my friend.
Kathleen Mikolay
April 10, 2007
I am greatly saddened by the death of one of my favorite, most supportive, and encouraging professors I have ever known. He always said hi to me, as well as inspired me to do my best, and I am forever grateful to him. He will not be forgotten.
Bryan Conley
April 10, 2007
Howard was a very influential teacher to me. I had him for three classes at CCAC. I first had him for photography 1, I have since then continued to pursue photography and hope to make it my life’s work. For a teacher I don’t think there’s a greater complement than that.
Jordan Peterson (CCAC art student)
April 10, 2007
He was a very encouraging and fun instructor. I had not known him for even a year as my first meeting of him was Fall '06, but I feel like I know him very well. He was a close friend and a wonderful artist that I will always remember, especially when I hear Bob Dylan. I looked up to him as an artist. My condolances.
Kitty Spangler
April 10, 2007
Dear Kathy and Family, You're in my thoughts and prayers. I can't imagine your shock and saddness. Howard will be missed, for sure. I was just at Prizm Art Supply Store and they were equally stunned and sorry to hear of Howard's sudden passing. He was a real inspiration and always happy to talk.
And, then, Sol LeWitt died, the next day. I'd like to think they meet up in the next dimension. Imagine that! Be well. Love, Kitty
Laura Crary
April 10, 2007
I'm sorry to learn of Howard's death. His teaching and friendship at CCAC helped me find my path in life back in the early '80s.
Rob Brust
April 10, 2007
I am very sorry to read of Howard's death, and extend my sympathy to Kathy and their children (both human and feline). I knew him mainly in the context of art shows, where I enjoyed talking with him, and was awestruck by his drawings. He was a nice person and had a fine reputation as an art teacher. Howard will be missed by many.
April 10, 2007
Mr. Lieberman will be greatly missed. He was full of encouragement and inspiration. I feel blessed to have known him. He was a true original. My deepest sympathies to his family.
debbie sage
April 10, 2007
I am so sorry to learn of Howard's unexpected passing. Kathy you are in my thoughts and prayers in the coming days of grief and transition. love debbie sage
Susan Cohen
April 10, 2007
Dear Kathy and Family,
I am deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Howard. Through his association with Neil Cohen at CCAC, I feel like I've known him forever. I loved seeing him (and you, Kathy) each year at the various arts festivals. He was a very talented guy. Please accept my deepest sympathy. I hope the good memories you have of Howard will help you through this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Susan Cohen
Kathy Rooney
April 10, 2007
Dear Kathy & Family,
I was very saddened to hear of your sudden loss of Howard. He was a wonderful teacher and artistic influence in my life from early on. I will miss seeing him at 3 Rivers Arts Fest and our impromptu conversations about art. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Very Best Regards,
A student
April 10, 2007
Mr. Lieberman was a great teacher and a loving friend to animals. He will be missed tremendously.
Danielle Young
April 10, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the family of Howard Lieberman -
During my brief employment as secretary to the art department of CCAC, I had the opportunity to meet Howard and I found him to be an exceptional and very kind person whom I will miss and never forget. God bless you all!
April 10, 2007
Mr. Lieberman was a great inspiration as an art instructor. He believed in everyone, and was truely a positive influence on his students.
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