Howard Livingston Stroupe, Jr.

Howard Livingston Stroupe Jr. was born in Lake Oswego, Oregon on 28 February 1924.  He was raised in Seattle and lived the last 75 years of his life in Tacoma.  He served in the U.S. Army 102nd Infantry "Ozark" Division during World War II, earning a Bronze Star and Purple Heart with oak leaf cluster in combat in Germany.  After returning from the war he attended the University of Washington where he met the love of his life, Tina Fornili.  They married in 1948, after which Howard joined the family business repairing and selling used cars at the Community Garage on South M Street.  Howard and Tina ran the Garage together until Tina's death in 1991.  They specialized in classic Ford Thunderbirds and Mustangs.

Howard was an avid golfer.  He began playing at an early age with his father.  He later starred on the Lincoln High and University of Washington golf teams, and was an Allenmore Club champion.  He only gave up the game in his mid 80s because, he said, "I just can’t drive the ball as far as I used to."

Howard was also a dedicated runner.  During his longest streak he ran at least three miles every day for 15 consecutive years.  He participated in Sound to Narrows 10K races and Tacoma Marathons well into his 60s.

Howard lived independently in his own home, mentally sharp to the end, until he passed unexpectedly at the age of 98.  His wit, wisdom, artistic talent, and storytelling will be greatly missed.

Howard was proud of his family, treasuring time spent with them.  He is survived by his son Howard III (Ann), twin grandsons Howard IV (Wendi) and Scott (Errin), great-grandson Howard V, great-granddaughter Sadie, as well as close friend Anna Tilton.

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