Robert Harris "Captain Bob" Howard

HOWARD, Robert "Captain Bob" Harris - Born May 27, 1945, resident of Belmont and the surrounding Peninsula, was taken from us in a fatal airplane crash Thursday, May 12, 2005. A proud and adoring father, whole-hearted and compassionate he touched so many lives with his enthusiasm, patience and kindness. He was effortlessly warm, generous and uplifting. Bob's accomplishments were many. He was a local legend in the avionic industry. Hundreds of pilots were fortunate to have had him as their Medallion Flight Instructor, many returning for counsel and renewed friendships. With over 24,000 hours of flight time, an AA degree in aeronautical engineering, ATP, SMEL, DC-3, CFII, CFI-ME, and First Class Medical Ratings, he served as a corporate and individual pilot for electronic corporations, classified surveillance technology experiments, NASA's flight simulator program, medical aid transportation to third world countries, private clients, curious youth and family vacations. Bob's expertise was not limited to aeronautical engineering. He applied his same dedication, passion and excellence as president and owner of Howard Enterprises to the clients of his computer consulting company. His talents ranged from computer skills to highly sophisticated entertainment systems to complex electrical-mechanical devices. Bob also held a bachelor of science in law (1988), served on the San Carlos Police Department (1977-1983) and was a USN photo-journalist during the Vietnam War (1966). As a "jack-of-all-trades," he could fix just about anything and happily helped others with their projects. Bob loved to escape to the family cabin in El Dorado Forest where he was the acting treasurer on the Board of Directors. There was no project to large or too small and all were pursued with the same enthusiasm and zest. Bob lived life to the fullest. With his bouncy stride and the latest gadgets and jingling key ring strapped to his belt, he always applied his quick-witted and clever humor to gain perspective on any event. In all his activities, whether flying, ski racing, motorcycle riding, sports car driving, SCUBA diving, construction, or electronics, he was more than willing to give the spotlight to others and discover together (cameras rolling) as if it were the first time. His kind heart and generous spirit will be deeply missed. Bob is survived by his daughters, Amber and Jodie Howard; father, Robert C. Howard; sister, Caroline Rose; and half-brother, Glen Howard. A Celebration of Bob's life will be held Sat, June 4, 2005 from 5-9pm at the Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos. All are welcome. Please bring pictures and stories to share and we shall "party on."