Contributions to the tribute of George P. Howard Jr.

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Thomas P. Fote posted a symbolic gesture

Friday, October 30, 2020

George Howard former JCAA Sportsperson of the Year passes. JCAA NEWSPAPER by Tom Fote The sportspersons of New Jersey lost one of our heroes on October 18th with the death of George Howard. My first official meeting with George Howard when he took over as Director of NJ Fish and Wildlife was arranged by Bruce Freeman. Bruce Freeman told George that I was trying to make striped bass a gamefish. George simply inquired if bluefish and summer flounder would be next. This was the beginning of a terrific working relationship. George supported striped bass as a gamefish and used his influence as director to make it happen. Among George’s accomplishments was the passage of the menhaden regulations in 1989 that moved the reduction boats further offshore. George’s early retirement due to heart issues was a loss for Fish and Wildlife but a great gain to the sportspersons of New Jersey and the management of the resource. As a private citizen, George could take on any issue and support any decision without worrying about the political consequences. George was clear that all the sportspersons needed to work together, and he used his influence to make that happen. George took over as President of the NJ Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs and pushed to bring organizations like JCAA, Trout Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited into the Federation. The eleven statewide organizations that joined the Federation increased its clout in Trenton and worked to everyone’s advantage. George attended more meetings as President of the Federation than he ever did as Director of Fish and Wildlife. He joined many coalitions and served on many boards. Most people do not think of George as a teacher but that’s what George was. He was a teacher and mentor to many of us. He made many of us look at issues in different ways. George always looked at the long game, willing to compromise now for a win later. He knew how systems worked and always had a plan in mind, even if was not immediately clear to us. As our mentor he always kept us in the loop and helped us build our own coalitions. He never looked down at anyone and was willing to listen to all ideas. He was aware of the diversity within the sports community and always took that into account. On a personal level, I loved and respected George and will miss him. I will miss the annual call to this Marine on Memorial Day, as a member of the greatest generation who fought in the Pacific to thank him for his service. Read the obituary below to get a better idea.

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Larry Niles posted a condolence

Monday, October 26, 2020

I worked for George when he served as Director of NJ Fish and Wildlife as a biologist with the Endangered Species Program but I have known Geoge professionally throughout my career in NJ. I first met him as a young biologist in 1983, a time when the Division was lead by Russ Cookingham, Pete McClain and George. I was young and so my impressions may be altered by time, but it established my lasting impression of the Geroge. He always had a powerful presence that commanded less by words but by his inherent authority. I remember clearly a reprimand from him about acting rashly in a minor situation. I was terrified but his admonishment was both helpful and clearly meant to be so. I think many people saw him that way, a powerful person with the grace to help others with his prodigious experience and knowledge. He was a great man and he will be missed. Larry Niles

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Oliver Shapiro posted a condolence

Sunday, October 25, 2020

I knew George for many years in the NJ State Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs. He was a true giant in advocating for wise natural resource use and conservation in New Jersey, and his impact will be felt for years to come. Guys like him come along only very, very rarely and he will be greatly missed.

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Kim Opiatowski posted a condolence

Sunday, October 25, 2020

To the entire Howard Family, Our deepest condolences on the loss of an amazing man, father, and grandfather! Love, Kim & Tony Opiatowski

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Kim Tinnes posted a condolence

Thursday, October 22, 2020

I will always have fond memories of George whom I've known since I was a little. He was responsible for me working for Fish and Wildlife. I remember division people trapping fawns in our hay fields as a kid and George practicing his turkey calls on our flock. He was a good guy who will be missed. My condolences to Judy, Jack and the rest of the family

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Christopher V. Sakos posted a condolence

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Dear Judy-Maria and I extend our most sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad. He sounded like an extra special person, who lived a life filled with fun and adventure. I'm sure he passed on being proud to call you his daughter, not just for your great achievements that you had, but, knowing that he always had, and always will have a nice daughter. May he rest in peace. --------------------------Sincerly, Chris and Maria Sakos

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The family of George P. Howard Jr. uploaded a photo

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

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Raymond Eriksen lit a candle

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

George P. Howard served his country in the Marines and returned to serve the sportsmen and women of the state of New Jersey in various capacities with the Division of Fish and Wildlife retiring as the Director. George was instrumental in the reintroduction of the wild turkey to New Jersey fields and forests and through this we met. George was a good friend and will be missed by all who knew him. my condolences to George's family. Ray Eriksen

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rick methot Posted Oct 21, 2020 at 5:17 PM

George was director when I first started covering Fish and Game as an outdoor writer for The Home News of New Brunswick in the mid 1970's. I remember brown bagging lunch and sitting in his office just talking about what was going on with the Division and outdoor life in general. I don't recall George ever saying to me, "this is off the record." He was one of the good guys and a fellow Marine, albeit he was a combat veteran. I only kept North Carolina safe for Democracy. rick methot

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Bob Eriksen posted a condolence

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Judy, Jack and family- George was a great biologist, a fantastic leader and a good friend. We shared many spring turkey hunts and wonderful conversations. He was so very supportive of his staff and it was a privilege to work under his leadership. I had the chance to work in two state wildlife agencies and with some really fine directors. George is at the top of that list. He and your mom cared deeply about their family and it showed when George spoke about you two and his granddaughters. George's tenure as Bureau Chief and Director of the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife was among the most productive times within the agency. White-tailed deer were managed with good science, black bear studies began, wild turkeys returned to the Garden State along with increases in bald eagles, peregrines and ospreys. He accomplished much and leaves an enduring legacy in both his family and the conservation world. Thanks for sharing him with us! We pray that your memories of good times with your mom and dad will give you comfort and strength at this time. With sincere sympathy, Bob and Sue Eriksen

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paula Dzieminski Posted Oct 21, 2020 at 4:48 PM

I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of George. He was the best director that I had the pleasure of working under. I'll hold fond memories of him. My condolences to the family. Paula Dzieminski

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George P. Howard Jr.

1925 - 2020

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