George Emlyn Howe

George Emlyn Howe, of Torrington, Connecticut, passed away after a long and well-lived life, leaving behind a legacy of family, stories, and a quiet but unmistakable presence that will not soon be forgotten.

Born on June 26, 1935, in Winsted, Connecticut, George was the son of Mary and Emlyn “Bing” Howe. He spent his life in the area, ultimately making his home in Torrington. He is survived by his brother, Norman Howe and his wife Bunny of Chapin, South Carolina, and was predeceased by his sister, Karen Phillips. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Tim Phillips of New Hartford, Connecticut.

George shared 66 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Sue C. Howe (née Bolzle), building a life together grounded in love, partnership, and unwavering commitment.

George was a proud and devoted father to his three sons: Geoffrey and his wife Ann of Harwinton, Connecticut; Jonathan and his partner Francisco Charriez of Lake Worth Beach, Florida; and R. Jason and his wife Michelle Laflamme-Howe of Kensington, New Hampshire. He was also a loving grandfather to Amanda Conlogue and her husband Dave Conlogue, Emily Howe, Phoenix Laflamme-Howe, Noah Laflamme-Howe, and Katie Laflamme-Howe, all of whom brought him great pride and happiness.

From an early age, George showed signs of the leadership and personality that would define him. As a boy, he spent countless hours leading his cousins on adventures, earning the nickname “The General.” He wasn’t a large man, but he carried himself with a natural authority that made the nickname stick.

That adventurous streak continued into his teenage years, when he developed a love of cars and anything mechanical. Like many young men with a fast car and a bit of confidence, he occasionally tested the limits—most memorably when he was chased by the police after racing up East Main Street in Torrington. When he was finally pulled over, the officers called his father, Bing, who served as a constable in New Hartford. Upon arriving at the scene, Bing promptly tore up George’s license on the spot—a lesson delivered swiftly and in no uncertain terms, and a story that would be remembered (and retold) for years to come.

That same spirit carried into family life. Each summer, George and Sue packed up the car and made the long drive to Cullman, Alabama, where Sue had been born and raised, to visit family on the farm. The three boys rode in the back of the family’s 1966 Chevy Caprice Classic on a homemade wooden bench, topped with a foam mattress stretching across the back seat—an arrangement that would no doubt raise eyebrows today, but in the late 1960’s and 1970’s it was simply part of the adventure. As the miles passed, there was an

unspoken understanding among the boys: once Mom fell asleep, it was time to encourage Dad to speed up! And, more often than not, he happily obliged.

George spent nearly his entire working life—40 years—with O&G Industries on South Main Street in Torrington, where he was responsible for fleet maintenance. He took great pride in his work and was known for his practical approach and steady leadership. It was often said that George was “firm, but fair,” and that he was “the biggest little man they’d ever met.” When managing mechanics, he insisted that they diagnose the problem before they ever picked up a wrench, staying true to the philosophy he often repeated: “If it isn't broke, we don't fix it.” It was more than just a saying—it was how he approached both machines and life: thoughtfully, efficiently, and without unnecessary complication.

Beyond his work and his stories, George will be remembered most for his character. He was a kind and generous man, quick with a thank you and never without a good word for others. He was also a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church in Torrington (now Northwest Hills Community Church), where he served as a Deacon. He had a way of making people feel appreciated—something that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

George’s life was not defined by grand gestures, but by the steady accumulation of moments: the family he raised, the work he took pride in, the stories he created, and the quiet kindness he showed every day. And in the end, that is what endures.

After 66 years of marriage, George and Sue built something rare and lasting. Over time they were no longer simply two people walking side by side, but something closer to one—bound together by shared years, experiences, and an enduring love.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 11th at the Phalen Funeral Home. Friends may call from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor House of Litchfield County, 21A Prospect St., Torrington, CT, or to Northwest Hills Community Church, 342 Prospect St., Torrington, CT.

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