Howard E. Witthuhn, 79 of Etowah died peacefully at home listening to his favorite music, Van Halen, Roy Orbison and Santana on August 21, 2022. He was born in Philadelphia, PA to the late Howard and Jean Ellsworth Witthuhn.

Prior to moving to North Carolina he resided in Rochester where he worked primarily at the University of Rochester Medical Center (Strong Memorial Hospital). After moving to North Carolina, he was a contracted teacher through AB-Tech and taught the trades to inmates at Craggy Prison. He retired in 2006. Traveling was his passion and he had been to Newfoundland, Iceland, Antarctica, Cancun, Italy and Sicily. He received his private pilot’s license at 17 years old at Hyland Airport in Rochester, NY.

He is survived by his loving partner of 26 years, Carol Messina as well as family and friends.

During the first part of his illness, his canine companion, Trevor was by his side. Sadly, Trevor passed away last August. Howard was devastated and made sure he said goodnight to him every night before bed. They were best buds.

Howard loved the outdoors, whether it be mowing the lawn or sitting on the porch with his morning coffee looking at the beautiful mountain view.

There will be a celebration of his life at a later date. If you wish to donate to any cause in his name, please donate to Mountain Pet Rescue Asheville (link provided).