It is with profound sadness that the Spy was notified yesterday of the unexpected passing of Spy columnist Howard Freedlander. It is a stunning loss for his family, friends, and colleagues here at this small online newspaper. The loss of this very special person in this publisher’s life makes me speechless as I reflect on how much he meant to his beloved town of Easton and to the causes he cared so much about.
There will be another time and moment to reflect on Howard, but in the meantime, I wanted to share with our readers an exit interview Howard did with the Spy after he and his wife, Liz, made the painful decision to leave Easton after decades to be closer to family.
John Dean says
Terrible news. Howard was a tremendous asset to the Eastern Shore and was loved and respected by everyone who knew him. He will be missed.
Thank you for posting this video. It captures Howard’s character and what he did to improve the lives of all of us living here.
Len Foxwell says
Sudden and devastating news. I worked with Howard for many years in his capacity as Treasurer Kopp’s liaison to the Board of Public Works. He was a trusted friend, an exceedingly honorable public servant, and the quintessential Talbot County gentleman. His loss will be felt for a very long time.
Nancy Matthews says
It is very sad news. Howard wrote a wonderful column, and I looked forward to reading it.
My sincere sympathy to his wife, Liz and their daughter.
Nancy Matthews
Rebecca Firth says
Great guy. He did a lot for many people. He will be missed.
Al Sikes says
Civility!
I loved Howard’s spirted commentaries. And when we got together we could disagree agreeably. Howard will be missed not just by those fortunate enough to know him but by his community. Not bad! The spirit is freed!
Carla Criste says
Howard was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. A thoughtful and impactful changemaker, who, when it came to worthy causes was unselfishly generous with his time. Howard made all who knew him feel special and heard. He made the world a better place and will be missed dearly.
Liz Freedlander says
Howdy majored in journalism at Penn and loved writing. He took such pleasure in the opportunity Dave gave him to use his talents. He was a very intelligent man who also had humility. His memory was predigeous and the breadth of his interests was wide. He was also a loving, kind and generous person and I was the beneficiary of these traits for 48 years.
Thank you Spy readers for giving him such a gift of readership. Especially Dave who quickly became and still is a pivotal person in enhancing the quality of our community life.
Gail says
Liz
I am so sorry to hear the news about your husband Howard. I really enjoyed reading his articles. Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. May the many happy memories you have give you some comfort at this time.
With love
Gail and Tony
Jacqueline Smith says
Liz, I’m so sorry for you and your family. May the good memories of Howard’s life and love bring you all comfort. Hugs to all. Jacque
Julie Tyler says
Deepest Sympathy Liz. Will keep you and your family in our prayers,
John Fischer says
Oh, nuts.
Our points of view did not always coincide but I never doubted where his heart was. He was a good, thoughtful man.
My condolences to Liz. My respect for Howard stemmed from my respect for her.
Doug Firth says
Very sad news. I knew Howard ( Howdy ) for a number of years and always enjoyed hearing and seeing what he and Liz were doing to make this community a better place. He was both a gentleman and a scholar and a friend who left an indelible mark on Talbot County
Many will miss you my friend.
Phil Foster says
It is a rare thing to meet, much less get to know, someone who delights in making other people or ideas succeed, but such a man was Howard Freedlander. He cautiously examined a situation before deciding where the good resided, but once he decided was able to put aside his own ego to work for the desired objective.
He could be the deputy commander of the National Guard or the Deputy Treasurer of Maryland because in his mind success of the mission was much more important than who got credit for that success.
I always enjoyed our occasional lunches while he lived here and the exchange of emails or phone conversations later.
His departure from this earth leaves me very sad, but his presence was a blessing to us all.
Maureen Curry says
So very saddened to hear about the passing of Howard Freedlander. He was an amazing human and one of Easton’s finest citizens. Liz and family, my love and prayers are with you. We are a better community because of Howard’s many contributions.
Phil Berkheimer says
I never met Howdy Freedlander (I live in Frederick County) and I don’t think I ever spoke with him on the phone. I did , however, look at him as a friend.
We were part of a texting group that debated politics and I was impressed by his intellect and subtle sense of humor.
My greatest admiration was reserved for observing his glib defense of his liberal positions when, as you might expect, he was clearly in the minority.
RIP Howdy
Joe Coale says
Were you the Phil Berkheimer of Alex Brown fame?
Mickey Terrone says
This news is stunningly sad for the whole community. My first thought was that there must be some mistake. I met Howard a few years ago but have come to “know” him through his incisive writings. I looked forward to his columns weekly. Howard will be sorely missed by many people. I’m so sorry for his family.
Vickie Wilson says
So sad to hear this. My condolences to Liz and family. He will be missed
Dick Deerin says
Always enjoyed his essays. RIP.
Patti Willis says
Liz and family:
Howdy and I rarely agreed on anything but he was such a gentleman and a great communicator that it didn’t matter! I have the greatest respect for you both and am sad to hear this news. Prayers for you and the family
Alex Handy says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Liz