Howard Lauchheimer Schloss, Jr.

Howard Lauchheimer Schloss, Jr.

June 22, 1930 – February 5, 2025

Howard L. Schloss, 94, longtime resident and “unofficial mayor” of Sandestin, died peacefully at his home with his wife, Helen, at his side on February 5, 2025. “Howie,” as his friends called him, had a strong faith and was a loving and committed husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Howard was known for his charm, kindness and sense of humor, socializing constantly. He loved a good steak and a martini or two and was a Thursday night regular at Vintij Bistro in Miramar Beach, Florida. All who knew Howard loved and adored him, including every restaurant owner and shopkeeper in the area. Howard took extra care to know and support his community, including regularly volunteering at local charities.

Sports was a passion of his. Howard loved to play golf and was elected the first president of Burnt Pine Golf Club. He was a master bridge player in his younger years due to his keen math ability, playing in tournaments around the country. He was a diehard fan of the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Lightning. He never missed watching one of their games with his dachshund by his side, often calling family members numerous times during them complaining of bad play and officiating.

Howard was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1930. He was raised in New Orleans, attending Isadore Newman school. He joined the US Army after high school and fought bravely on the front lines in Korea for three years, rising to the rank of Lieutenant. After Korea, he attended Washington and Jefferson College, where he majored in math. His professional life involved working in the insurance and men’s clothing industries.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Helen; his two children, Margaret Hall (Perry) and Howard Schloss; six grandchildren, Hallye Perkins (Stephen), Emily Billingsley (Baxter); Michael Schloss, Lindsay Schloss, Gabriella Schloss and Matthew Schloss; and, five great grandchildren, James, Perry and Mills Perkins, and Margot and Frances Billingsley.

A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Resurrection Catholic Church, in Miramar Beach.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, Florida.