HAMPSTEAD — Howard Samuel Best, 85, died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, with family by his side. He was born in Knox, Penn., on Jan. 25, 1931, the son of the late Howard and Bernice (Read) Best.
Howard was a graduate of Bradford High School in Bradford, Pa., and served in the U.S. Air Force. He retired from Corning Inc. and founded Microtech Design, and Best Technologies in Corning, N.Y. He resided in Watkins Glen, N.Y.; Tavernier, Fla.; Punta Gorda, Fla., and Hampstead, N.C., in his retirement years.
Howard was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved being on the water, fishing and boating. He was also a skilled handyman, always willing to help with any project or task. Howard was happiest with a fishing rod in his hand.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Best; son, Robert Best; and grandson, Jonathan Best.
Mr. Best is survived by his loving wife Laura Jean (Mays) Best; daughter, Karen DuMont of Wilmington, N.C.; son, Todd Best, and his wife, Lourdes, of Hampstead, N.C.; daughter-in-law, Billie Jean Best of Roxboro, N.C.; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; sister, Diane Langley of Kingsland, Texas; sister-in-law, Betty Best of Kennebunk, Maine; several nieces and nephews; and many longtime friends.
Howard’s wisdom, wit and love will be greatly missed.
A private service will be held. Interment will be in Clarion, Penn., at a later date.
Donations may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1406 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.