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Henry Phillip Huff Jr.

1920 - 2018

Henry Phillip Huff Jr. obituary, 1920-2018, Pebble Beach, CA

BORN

1920

DIED

2018

FUNERAL HOME

Bermudez Family Cremations & Funerals - Monterey

475 Washington St. A

Monterey, California

Henry Huff Obituary

Henry Phillip Huff, Jr.

July 27, 1920 - February 5, 2018

Henry (Hank) Huff passed away peacefully at his home in Pebble Beach, California on February 5, 2018, a few months shy of his 98th birthday. He was born in El Paso, Texas on July 27, 1920. He attended Stephen F. Austin High School in El Paso and matriculated to Texas College of Mines (Texas Western). As a junior he transferred to the University of Minnesota to study aeronautical engineering. In college he met the love of his life, Mary Ann Earnest. Upon graduation in 1942, they married and located in St. Louis where Hank began his career as a young aeronautical engineer with Curtiss- Wright. There his team was responsible for the development of the XP-42 fighter airplanes. Hank became a specialist in airplane structures and at that point, with a new son Henry III, the family relocated to Columbus, Ohio so he could perform wind tunnel tests. After the war, in 1946, Hank went to work with Slick Airways, an air freight company in San Antonio, Texas. Slick later moved to Burbank, California and the Huff family followed, and welcomed a second son, John.
Tragedy struck in 1949 with Mary Ann contracting polio. She spent 3 years in a Los Angeles County hospital and returned home as a quadriplegic surviving only with the assistance of an iron lung. Hank dealt with this life defining situation with grace and calm. He imported the two grandmothers and hired several amazing home-helpers to take care of his wife and his two young boys Hank the III (6ys) and John (2yrs). He and Mary Ann were committed to creating a full life together for their family.
Slick Airways relocated to the Bay Area in 1962 and the Huffs moved to Hillsborough. They found a home with an impressive view for Mary Ann, and Hank joined the Olympic Club in San Francisco as a golf member. In 1966, Hank became the Executive Vice President at Trans International Airlines. This charter airline was unique, flying military, football teams, race horses and even cows. In commenting on his now executive status, Hank quipped, "he flew a desk." TIA was later purchased by Transamerica Corporation and Hank became the CEO. Hank was a demanding boss, but he often awarded employees with an "atta boy" when goals were met.
Love of golf and the beauty of the Monterey Peninsula drew Hank and Mary Ann to purchase a "dream" home in Pebble Beach in 1971. The magnificent ocean views made Mary Ann's days happy as she ran parties at their home during the Crosby (AT&T) tournaments. Hank joined The Old Capital Club in Monterey for lunch and bridge and Monterey Peninsula Country Club for more golf. In 1975, Hank was invited to join the Conquistadores del Cielo, a prestigious group of top airline executives. He loved the fellowship of his airline "buddies" in both the Spring and Fall meetings at ranches. He retired from Transamerica in 1985, but continued working as a consultant for UPS, building their new airline.
Sadly, in 1983 Hank lost Mary Ann but he found love again with Marie Kuehner, a retired airline administrative assistant. They married in 1986 in Hawaii and enjoyed full retirement, traveling and entertaining. Marie passed away in 2009 and Hank became a full time bridge player at both the Beach Club and Old Capital Club. During the last few years of his life, Hank was warmly attended by his caregivers Charlotte, William and Christopher.
Hank is survived by son Henry Huff III, grandchildren Phillip Huff, Andrew Huff, Della Huff, Summer Huff and great grandchildren Hillary Huff and Tommy Huff. Son John predeceased him in life. Hank will be sorely missed, and will always be remembered as a "true gentleman," a kind friend and a generous host.
A private family Celebration of Life will be held.
Condolences may be written to the family at www.bermudezfamilyfunerals.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Feb. 23 to Feb. 25, 2018.

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Lloyd Nattkemper, D.D.S.

February 22, 2025

Nearly every day I think of Henry Huff, who I was priveledged to care for as one of his dentists. Particularly when I pass by or stop by his home in Pebble Beach, his quiet strength, intelligence, his grace and humor even when dealing with physical challenges, still remains with me. He and I shared a mutual passion for aviation, and 'though my love for it was largely through my readings, attendance at many airshows and friendships with a number of aviators (some of whom were famous), that mutual interest added a spark of enthusiasm and alignment whenever we were seeing Henry in my office (which had many paintings of aircraft in many of the rooms). I pray that he is at peace, and that he is remembered with a smile and warmth.

Lloyd Nattkemper, D.D.S.

February 21, 2024

Henry was truly a gentleman. Over the course of the many years my staff and I saw him as a patient we were moved by his appreciative, kind nature, his grace in dealing with the losses he had experienced in life--including dental issues we did our best to assuage), his patience, and for me personally, his rich background in the field of aviation. For 35 years now I've cycled in Pebble Beach, frequently passing by his home. I always think of him, always picture the parties he and his wife held there, always remembering his quiet strength. I will always feel honored and blessed to have known Henry and been part of his life.

Lloyd Nattkemper

February 19, 2019

Two days ago I was speaking with friends about people in my life who have inspired me, influenced me, who served as examples to emulate--examples of strength, gentleness, appreciativeness, wisdom. Henry came to mind immediately. Then yesterday, in spite of challenges and weakness I am facing due to cancer, I took a bike ride in Pebble Beach--where I have cycled for over 30 years--and paused by Henry's former home. There are tall cypress along Bonifacio Road there, views of Point Lobos, and mostly at least for me, a sense of peacefulness and remembrance. I'm wishing all in his family that same sense of peace, and knowledge that we are better having been part of his life.

Lloyd Nattkemper, DDS

April 19, 2018

We had the pleasure, and privilege, of seeing Henry as a patient for well over 20 years, including the past few when Charlotte his caregiver would accompany him. Without exception, Henry was always appreciative, uncomplaining, discerning, practical, and in spite of the many frustrations and losses he encountered over the years, Henry retained a delightful sense of humor. All of us on my staff liked him and looked forward to his time with us. We also so appreciated and admired Charlotte--who was truly devoted to his wellbeing and loyal, literally to the end. One of the greatest gifts I feel we can receive in this life is being part of other's lives, who inspire and make better. Henry Huff inspired all of us in my office. We truly will miss this fine man. We send our sincere condolences to his family and caregivers (we will miss you Charlotte!).

March 23, 2018

Velma and I send our deepest condolences to the Huff family upon the passing of Henry. It was a pleasure being his neighbor for all these years. Henry will certainly be missed.
Sincerely,
Ted & Velma Balestreri

February 28, 2018

Phil,

I am so sorry to read about your grandfather's passing. You may remember me from the Stocker Cup. Henry was a great pal of mine at the Old Capital Club as he was of all the members. We shall miss him.
All the best to you and your family.

Dan Kreer

February 28, 2018

Heartfelt condolences are extended to your family at this difficult time. Seek the love and support God provides to help you cope during this time - Psalms 29:11

February 28, 2018

Heartfelt condolences are extended to your family at this difficult time. Seek the love and support God provides to help you cope during this time - Psalms 29:11

February 25, 2018

We have many fond memories of Hank and MaryAnn. We lived across the street in Hillsborough. He was such a handsome man and true gentleman. A good long life he lead. Our prayers for all of you. Gail and Ron Marlin

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