Obituary of Steven Ira Howard

Steven Ira Howard, 78, of Woburn, MA, formerly of Burlington, MA, and Long Island, NY, passed away suddenly on the morning of Saturday, January 4, 2025.

Born in New York City, Steven was the son of Bernard and Belle Howard. He was raised in the Bronx and Woodmere, New York, alongside his brother Michael. Steven earned his bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University and went on to complete his master’s degree at Columbia University. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for eight years, achieving the rank of Captain.  He served during the Vietnam Era and was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and Air Force Organizational Excellence Award.   During his military time in the Air Force, he was an electronics engineer at Hanscom Air Force Base.

A true pioneer in his field, Steven entered the world of software engineering well before it became mainstream. Over the years, he worked for leading companies such as AS&E, Wang, and Fidelity. During this time, he also operated his own contracting business, Binary Business Systems, where he provided software design solutions to various industries. After his retirement, Steven found joy in part-time work as a cashier at Target, often sharing that it was one of the most enjoyable jobs he had ever had.

Steven was known for his easy-going nature and jovial personality. While he wasn't the life of the party, he was always engaging and well-versed on a wide range of topics, making him a fascinating conversationalist. He was an active participant in a longtime bowling league and loved spending time playing pool with his sons. A lifelong sports fan, Steven had a deep passion for baseball, particularly the New York Yankees. However, having lived in Massachusetts for many years, he also cheered for the Red Sox—so long as they weren’t playing the Yankees or competing for home-field advantage in the playoffs.

A devoted Formula One fan, Steven kept up with every race, driver, team, and sponsor, attending several F-1 races at Lime Rock Park. He cherished many family vacations to Canada, Lake Winnipesaukee, and Lake Winnisquam. An avid hiker, Steven frequently enjoyed long walks, often on the trails of Mt. Monadnock. He also stayed informed on state and national politics and was never shy about sharing his strong opinions when asked.

Steven had a particular fondness for dining out, with Indian and Chinese cuisine among his favorites. He was a passionate music lover, especially favoring doo-wop music from the 1950’s. Steven also enjoyed seeing North Shore Acappella with his daughter Sue, even singing with the group on one occasion.

Steven will be remembered for his humility, sharp sense of humor, vast knowledge, and the love he shared with family and friends.

Steven was the best friend and former husband of Joan Trubiano of Burlington.  He was also the husband of the late Irene M. (Rifkin) Howard.  He was the proud father of Suzanne Towne & her husband Craig of Gloucester, Christine Edgerton & her husband Bart of Annandale, VA, Brian Howard & his wife Elizabeth of Dracut, Zach Howard & his wife Lena of Tewksbury, and the late Seth Sharkey.  He was the brother of Michael Howard of Woodbury, NY.  He was the loving grandfather of Maxwell Edgerton, Theodore Edgerton, Nicholas Edgerton, Willow Howard, and Ashley Napolitano.  He was the great grandfather of Mia, Chloe, Natalie, and Ava.  Steven was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. 

A funeral service will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Monday, January 6 at 1pm. Services will conclude with a burial at Woburn Hebrew Cemetery on Washington Street in Woburn. 

Memorials in Steven’s name may be made to the American Diabetes Association, www.diabetes.org, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, Virginia 22116-7023. 

For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net