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Gary Francis Howard, 73, of Bourne, MA, Fort Myers, FL, and formerly of Canton, MA passed away on May 9, 2026, following a brief and courageous battle with liver cancer.
Born in Canton on July 9, 1952, as the youngest of four brothers to the late John and Elizabeth Howard, Gary was a standout hockey player and golfer at Canton High School (Class of 1970) and attended Boston College on a hockey scholarship.
In 1971, Gary married his high school sweetheart, Sheila. Together, they built a family and a life defined by loyalty, kindness, and countless fun times shared with family and friends. A man of quiet strength and sincere character, Gary was a cherished friend on and off the golf course, known for making everyone feel welcome.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Sheila; his son Jason and wife Coleen; his treasured granddaughter Hannah; and his brothers Scott (Debby) and Glenn (Elizabeth), along with many dear in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John, and his son Jesse.
Gary’s legacy of warmth, humility, and devotion to family and friends will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral Mass at St. Oscar Romero Parish, 700 Washington St. Canton, on Wednesday, May 20th at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the MSPCA
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Howard, please visit our floral store.