Obituary: Howard J. Rosenblatt

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Howard J. Rosenblatt

NAUGATUCK — Howard J. Rosenblatt, 74, of Naugatuck, died Monday, Feb. 15, 2021, at his home with his wife, Julie, and daughter, Jennifer, by his side. Howie was born in New Haven, a son to the late Bill and Lil Rosenblatt.

Howie graduated from Naugatuck High School and Rider University with a degree in business. Upon completion of college, he eventually returned to the family business as manager of Rosenblatt’s Department Store. Upon his father’s passing, Howie continued the business that has a legacy of over 100 years. He enjoyed each day working and chatting with various friends and customers. He always had a smile and treated each one as family.

His passion for running was evident as most people saw him on his daily run on Route 63. This passion was handed down to his daughter, Jennifer, who won many accolades for her accomplishments. He definitely was her super fan! This love of running led him to advise many young runners in the community and so many came to seek his advice.

Howie gave back to the community in many ways. He never refused to give a donation to a group. He was a member of the VNA, HRD and Campership committees. He received the NHS Alumni Association Award and the United Way Service Award. Howie was a coach in the Naugatuck Junior Football League and along with his wife coached Union City Little League softball and Little Pal Basketball.

Howie was the best husband, father, brother, uncle, papa and friend to all. Howie is survived by his wife of 41 years, Julie; daughter, Jennifer (Josh) Gampel; sister, Sari Rosenblatt and husband, Steve Machuga; and sister-in-law, Susan Rosenblatt. Howie was predeceased by his brother, Steve Rosenblatt, who was also his best friend. For all who knew Howie his granddaughters, Lily and Ashley, were his pride and joy. His little “helpers” at the store made him always smile. He adored his grand dog, Dexter, who was always a good buddy. He also leaves brothers-in-law, Paul Merluzzi, Tom Merluzzi and Jay Merluzzi. He leaves behind several nieces and nephews, Ericka, Anyia, Msichana, Natalia, Julian, James, Andrew, Nora and Anne.

Howie’s family is so appreciative for the excellent care he received from Dr. Ralph Tremaglio, Dr. Daniel Petrylak, Connecticut Hospice, All about You, and Susan Grom, my on call friend and nurse.

There are no services or calling hours at this time but rather a celebration of life for Steve and Howie at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buckmiller Thurston Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave., Naugatuck.

In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Howie’s memory can be made to Naugatuck Adult and Continuing Education Scholarship Fund. Naugatuck Adult Education, 543 Rubber Ave., Naugatuck, CT 06770.

To leave an online condolence, visit www.buckmillerthurstonmengacci.com.