Howard Fremont McCluan

Howard Fremont McCluan died July 31, 2021 at the age of 85 from Alzheimer’s. He was lovingly cared for until the very end by his wife of 64 years. He was born March 15, 1936 to Mont McCluan and Virginia Schaefer in Steubenville, Ohio. At the age of nine their family moved to San Diego, California. Howard’s Dad was not healthy, so from a young age Howard helped contribute his wages to their household and all of his own expenses. He worked during high school at 24 Hour Coffee Shop in Coronado. After that he worked at Lafayette Hotel as a bell man, followed by Town and Country Hotel as a bellman and Maitre d and next Vacation Village as a night auditor.

In 1956 he married his childhood sweetheart, Myrna Arlene Ellis. In a period of five years they produced four children. It was a happy family, full of camping, music, sports, and family events. He was able to get his degree at SDSU and became a stock broker at Dean Witter. He than started a company of his own, San Diego Financial Systems. With the help of Myrna he was a success. While still quite young, Howard retired, to concentrate on travel. They traveled the world. They visited Europe, South America, China, Netherlands, Australia and New Zealand along with others. Myrna and Howie moved to their Tahoe house for about 10 years. Many family and friends enjoyed spending time, both winter and summer.

Although he had many health issues during his lifetime, he never stopped playing, singing, or telling stories until the end. In his earlier years he enjoyed playing racquetball, tennis, baseball, and golf until his 80’s. He was very creative and enjoyed the arts. He excelled in woodworking, card making, stained glass, pottery, and painting. He loved all kinds of music and often accompanied with his harmonica. He always loved singing along to the music as well.

He is survived by his wife, Myrna, of Santee. His four children: Tammy (Jim Downs) of San Diego, Lance (Phillipa) of Folsom, CA, Tracy (Mary) of Winchester, CA and Link of Santee. Left with fond and colorful memories are his ten grandchildren: Cory Downs (Jenelle), Jamie Downs (Shaun Degagne), Trevor Downs, Sean McCluan, Kyle McCluan (Jenna), Megan McCluan, Karen McCluan, Joshua McCluan, Taylor McCluan, Madison McCluan. He was lucky enough to meet and hug his two Great Grandchildren: Oakley McCluan and Elijah Cellini. He also leaves many cousins and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his beloved younger brother, Richard and wife, Danna. They shared a love of shenanigans throughout their years.