In Memoriam - Gerry Howard

Gerry began his career as an umpire in 1962 in the Winnipeg Industrial League. Three years later he became one of six officials to work the first ever Canadian Senior Women’s Fast Pitch Championship. He officiated at all levels of softball, from minor to world championships and served as an executive member in many positions including municipal, provincial, national and international organizations. His international experience on the field included the 1968 Men’s World Softball Championship, the 1981 Junior World Championships and the 1991 Junior Women’s World Championship.

He served as Softball Canada’s Umpire-in-Chief from 1986 to 1993. During his eight years he was instrumental in the introduction of a graduated umpire certification program, integrated Slow Pitch officiating as a valuable component of the softball officiating program and successfully launched the National Umpire School Program. Gerry was appointed Deputy Umpire-in-Chief of the International Softball Federation in 1993, and served in a supervisory role as Deputy Umpire-in-Chief at four other World Championships and his crowning moment – the 1996 Olympic Games.

Gerry left a huge impact on the national and international umpire programs, and remained involved with Softball Manitoba's umpire program until his passing. He was inducted to the Softball Canada Hall of Fame in the Officials category and the International Softball Hall of Fame in 1995.

Gerry had just recently attended Softball Canada’s 50th Anniversary Celebration in Winnipeg on November 13th where he had the opportunity to reminisce with past Softball Canada Directors, Presidents and umpires.

The entire softball community offers its condolences to Gerry Howard's family.