Jan. 30, 1923 — Jan. 18, 2012
Dr. George Guinn Howe, 88, of Duncan, died on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012. Memorial services were Thursday, Jan. 26, at the graveside, with only family present, granting Dr. Howe’s wishes.
He was born Jan. 30, 1923, in Duncan, to George Leo Howe and Ethel Bell Guinn. He was married to Joan “Jody” Allen on March 29, 1945, in Duncan. George graduated from Duncan High School. After high school, he attended Texas A&M University, the University of Arizona and San Diego State University.

He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on Jan. 7, 1944, where he became a B-17 Bomber pilot, making the rank of captain. His duty was flight commander, leading 28 to 37 bombing planes on combat missions in WWII. While stationed in Foggia, Italy, he flew 50 combat missions into enemy territory and was shot down once behind enemy lines. He was decorated for his flying courage during the war, receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross, Distinguished Unit Badge, Six Bronze Service Stars and the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters.

After the war, George attended the University of California at Berkeley, where he graduated with honors and received his doctorate in optometry. In 1951, Dr. Howe established his optometry practice in Duncan, where he would practice for 36 years.

He served the community in many ways. He was the first president of the Jaycees, receiving the Distinguished Service Award, a member of the Kiwanis Club and served on the Duncan School Board for nine years.

After retirement he spent six months of the year fly fishing and hunting in Colorado, and the rest of the year in Duncan with his children and grandchildren. He was a man of many artistic talents, such as water color and oil painting, sculpting, photography and woodworking.
He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather, being supportive in all of their activities. He was a huge influence in each of their lives. Dr. Howe was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife Joan Howe; his son Jeff and wife Suzanne Howe, of South Fork, Colo.; his daughter Heather Radford, of Fremont, N.C.; four grandchildren, Josh Howe and wife Tiffany, Sarah Jones and husband Kevin, Tiffany Pruden and husband Capt. Michael Pruden, Cody and husband Danny Scott; and 11 great-grandchildren.

The family is most appreciative of Sue Mercer, who provided great care.