Howard C. Gilmore

Howard Gilmore passed away at Careage of Whidbey in Coupeville the morning of July 1, 2007. Howard was born in Seattle on August 21, 1929, the second son of parents Charles and Gladys Gilmore.

Howard grew up in South Seattle sharing his childhood with a large extended family. On August 21, 1946 at the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served almost 24 years as an Aviation Ordnanceman, or as he referred to it a “BB Stacker.” Howard served several tours of duty on different aircraft carriers off the coast of Vietnam and was proud of his military career. He stayed close with many of those he served with after his retirement. He retired from the Navy on June 22, 1970.

At his side during his Navy career was his wife Alice Gilmore who he met while on leave with her brother. They were married in Blair, S.C., on Dec. 18, 1948. Howard and Alice shared everything in life together until her death on May 16, 1997. They had three children, Rick, Patty and Sandra who all graduated from Oak Harbor High School. Son Rick, daughter Patty, six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren survive Howard.

Upon his Navy retirement Howard worked in the auto industry at different car dealerships from Seattle to Bellingham. His strong work ethic throughout his life endeared him to co-workers and customers alike.

Howard became a Shriner and was very proud of this affiliation and the noble work they did for kids. Friends will remember him dressed as “Winnie the Pooh” at Shriner functions when he was a member of the Dis-Nay characters traveling to parades and public events throughout the Northwest.

Howard met his second love, Mary Ann Guidry, who had been displaced from New Orleans after hurricane Katrina, at the Oak Harbor Senior Center in 2006. Mary Ann became Mrs. Howard Gilmore on June 22, 2007. Mary Ann was constantly at Howard’s side during the difficult time before he passed away and was a true blessing for Howard in his final days.

A memorial service will be held for Howard at Burley Funeral Chapel on Saturday, July 7, at 11 a.m. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, friends may send a donation in Howard’s name to Skagit Hospice at 819 S. 13th St., Mt. Vernon WA 98274.