December 15, 2020
Howard W. Rose Jr., 71; formerly of Fulton passed away peacefully at his Baldwinsville, NY home. Howard was born in Fulton, NY to Howard W. Rose Sr. and the late Sonia (Tugaw) Rose. He served as an infantryman and combat artist in Vietnam from 1968-1970. Howard earned a fine arts degree from SUNY Oswego and demonstrated his artistic abilities throughout the area through his business “Howard Rose Art Sign Service, Inc.” He served as a Town Counselor on the Volney Town Board from 1989 to 1993 and as Town Supervisor from 1993 to 1995. After serving 20 years, he retired from the Fulton Fire Department. His Vietnam war experiences persisted throughout his life. Howard stayed in contact with members of his unit recently gathering in his home for a 50-year reunion. He was inducted into the NY State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame. Howard’s story became a part of our nation’s history through an interview for the National Archives, Library of Congress. He kept a diary during the war and had just completed a soon to be released book titled “Diary of a Disposable Soldier.” Howard is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years Christine Rose of Fulton, his children: Amy Serwinowski of North Syracuse, NY; and Emma (Chris) Degener of Salem, OR; his 2 stepchildren: Tracey (Jeremy) Sinz of Temecula, CA; and Travis Brandt of Whitesboro, NY; and his 3 sisters: Roxanne Ingleston of TX, Leslie Seeley of Rochester, NY; and Melody Ann Squitieri of FL. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jacob and Ella Sinz, Miles Degener, and Kiley Serwinowski. Howard was pre-deceased by his brother Michael R. Rose. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled when it will be safe to attend. Donations may be made to: vetswithamission.org. Arrangements are in the care of Sugar Funeral Home, Inc., 224 W. 2nd St. S., Fulton.
I remember meeting both Howard and Christine in their little shoppe in downtown Fulton in 2000 when we opened our bookstore in Oswego. Christine had a little dog, so we sort of bonded right away. Howard was the most personable man I’d met in a long time. He did an amazing job on our three signs on our building. Years later I saw his Best of Show at the Fulton Art Association. This man leaves a legacy of wonderful commercial and fine art, too. I am sorry to hear of his loss to family and friends, but also community. Rest in peace, Howard, you were an asset to this world. And you won’t be soon forgotten.
It is a very sad day to see the passing on an old friend that I met through volleyball years ago and then carried on through a business relation. Howard was so easy to get along with and he will be missed, he was a great resource. My best to Christine, she was a rock that stood by Howard when things got really tough.
I hope to carry on his tradition as the business he started back in the 1970’s continues to serve Central NY. Prayers to the entire Rose family at their time of loss.
Christine, to you & to your family from Vets With A Mission, please accept our sincere condolences and expression of sympathy on the passing of Howard. We celebrate his life, service, and believe we shall meet again…Charles Ward, Executive Director
Howard and I became fast friends in the mid 70″s when he was trying to sell sandblasted signs in the area. I ordered one for our liquor store and still have it today. I introduced Howard and Christine, who eventually married, Throughout my carreer Howard provided many signs for me in whatever businesses I went into. There will NEVER be a man who was as talented with graphics as Howard. I had to wait in order to post something. Forgive me, because I just could not do it. I will miss you Howard and will always hold you in high esteem. If there is a Azteca Mexican Grille in Heaven, I hope you are enjoying a fine meal. Sandy Freeman
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