Howard Rogers Cannon

1950 - 2021

CANNON, Howard Rogers, age 70, passed away following a period of declining health. He was born in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina and grew up in Emporia, Virginia; the devoted son of William Howard and Edith Rogers Cannon. He served proudly in the United States Army during the Vietnam era and continued to be a strong and unwavering Patriot until his death. He is survived of his wife of 45 years, Amy Zaruba Cannon; two sisters, Ruth Furbee of Montclair, Virginia and DeEtte Wirtanen of Parker, Colorado; his son, Brian and wife, Kelly; two grandchildren, Bennett and Kathryn. He leaves nieces, Angi Williams, Mikhel Wirtanen, Sarah Brogan, Emily Zaruba, Danielle Duerr and Katie Sherron; nephews, Scott Furbee, Mark and Stephen Zaruba; sisters-in-law; Beth Riffe and Cindy Zaruba and a devoted brother-in-law, Mark N. Zaruba Sr.; as well as other extended family members. He is also survived by dear friends, Lawrence and Brooke Hettinger; and lifelong friend, Bob Ranson. Roger retired from United Parcel Service after 33 years of dedication. While in his 50s, he found what he always wanted to do and took up skydiving. His greatest thrill was jumping out of a perfectly good airplane and enjoyed introducing friends and family to the sport. At his request, there will be no memorial service, but donations to his favorite charity, Shriners Hospitals for Children, P.O. Box 1525, Ranson, West Virginia 25498, or a charity of your choice would be welcome. Online condolences may be registered at ealvinsmall.com.