Howard J. Abare

August 2, 1939 - November 6, 2016

Plattsburgh—Howard J Abare (also known as Howie and Julio) 77, of Beekman Towers, Plattsburgh, died Sunday November 6, 2016 at CVPH Medical Center. He was in born in Keeseville on August 2, 1939, the son of Harry and Lucille (Douglas) Abare. He graduated from Keeseville Central School in 1958 where he excelled in many sports and activities throughout his high school career with basketball and baseball being at the top of the list. He made the paper many times for his sports achievements and had nicknames such as “Peanuts” and “Sid ”. After which he served in the United States Air Force from 1958-1960 with honorable discharge. Many will remember him for his role as General Manager of Friendly’s in Plattsburgh. He began his career with Friendly’s in 1986 and in 1987 he received recognition for the Easter Seals Foundation of New Hampshire and Vermont for helping raise money for handicap adults and children through Friendly Ice Cream Corporation. In 1999, he and his crew received recognition from the President of the corporation for having ten outstanding years for success and leadership. He also enjoyed sponsoring local team organizations such as PAL Football and Town of Plattsburgh Baseball teams. He was an active member of the community and belonged to multiple organizations. His most beloved was the Plattsburgh Moose Lodge #2390. He became a Charter member in 1991 and through his tireless devotion and dedication he climbed through the ranks and was recognized by the Moose for several achievements. In 1996, he was presented the Lodge Merit Award Certificate from Moose International for his past governorship from 1995-1996. In 1998, he was recognized by Moose International for Moose of the Year. In 2008, he received one of his highest achievements by the Loyal Order of Moose, Pilgrim Degree of Merit for which he was admitted to the eightieth opening of the Pilgrim Crypt in the House of God, Mooseheart, Illinois. His role as Administrator resulted in his final achievement in 2010, as he was selected as one of the five finalists for Moose International’s Shining Star Award in the category of Top Administrator of the Year. He was also very passionate with his affiliations with the Elks Keeseville Lodge #2072 to which he was a Life Member for 38 consecutive years and The American Legion Post #1619 for 23 continuous years. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his twin sisters, Jean and Joan who died at birth. He is survived by his children, Patti Trombley and her husband Tim, Penny Matott and her husband Kevin, Michelle Abare and her companion Craig Lapier, all of Plattsburgh, NY, a step-daughter Susan Howe and her companion Jim Wilcox, of Syracuse; his grandchildren, Troy, Cole, Ashleigh, Kelsey and her fiancé Tim all of Plattsburgh; his great-grandchildren Clara and Jackson and the mother of his children Betty, several cousins including Herbie Rock which was like a brother, and special friends Paul and Shirley Trombley of Plattsburgh and all who reached out to him. His happiest times were spent with his family and especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed the game of golf so much that he got his grandson Troy addicted to the game as well. They spent many afternoons golfing together to which Troy can attest that his grandfather spent most of his time in the sand trap. Calling hours will be from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Wednesday November 9, 2016 at Heald Funeral Home, 48 Court St. Plattsburgh. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 AM Thursday November 10, 1016 at St. Peter’s Church in Plattsburgh. Entombment will follow in St. Peter’s Columbarium with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations in Howie’s memory can be made to the Plattsburgh Moose Lodge #2390 Scholarship Fund. To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com