Howard "Howie" F. Townsend

Townsend, Howard F. “Howie “age 78 of Maple Avenue, Elmira, peacefully went to be with the Lord surrounded by the love of his wife of 29 years Ellen “Lois” (Yeomans) and son Bryan Townsend. Howie was born in Lackawanna, PA, May 20th, 1936. He was the son of the late Covert and Valera Townsend. In addition to his wife Ellen, he is survived by his children: Debra (Russell) Arrigo of Lakeview, NY, David (Erica) Townsend of Horseheads, NY, Bryan (Megan) Townsend of Elmira, Michael (Kelly) Burt of Elmira; Grandchildren: Kristofer and Michael Arrigo, Sean and Ella Townsend, Brandon Burt, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and his cat “Smokey”.He is predeceased by his brother: Rudy Townsend, and sister Audrey Weigle. Howie was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He possessed a strong sense of humor and was dearly loved by his many friends. In the past he worked on the Erie Railroad as a tower telegraph operator;in 1957 he was appointed as a patrolmen for the Elmira Police Department; He later retired as Captain on May 3rd, 1993.Howie took great pride in his time as the Mayor of Elmira for two terms from 1994 to 1997. In his many interests he renovated and rebuilt his 1850 farm house located on Maple Avenue. He found great enjoyment in carpentry and admiring his home. He could build anything out of wood and found great peace in his labors. Howie was a member of the F&AM Elmira Masonic Temple #95, and the Elmira Police Benevolent Assoc. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira, NY Sunday, January 4th, 2015 from 2:00PM to 4:00PM and again 7:00PM to 9:00PM. Funeral services honoring the life of Howard F. Townsend will be held there Monday, January 5th, 2015 at 11:00AM. Pastor Albert Craig will officiate. Graveside services will follow in the Woodlawn Cemetery. Those wishing please make memorials in Howie’s name to the charity of one’s choice.