Howard Quintin Baer, 82, of Bayside, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, at Queen of the Valley Hospital in Napa. Born on September 20, 1942, in Mt. Vernon Ohio, Howard lived a life full of love, dedication and service to his community.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Kathy Baer; his daughter Cindy Matney; his son Greg Baer; his beloved granddaughters Jenae Hagler and Madeline Marie Baer; and his great-granddaughter Hayden Hagler. He was predeceased by his parents and siblings.

Howard was a devoted educator and school administrator who touched the lives of countless students and colleagues. He began his teaching career as an auto shop teacher and later became the principal of Arcata’s Pacific Coast High School, a position he held for many years. After moving from Ohio to Stockton when he was 18, he then moved to the Arcata area in 1963, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Humboldt State University.

Outside of his professional life, Howard was known for his kindness, wisdom and unwavering commitment to his family. His hobbies revolved around working with his hands through woodworking, house projects and, most notably, car projects. His most beloved car was his 1978 Ford Fairmont station wagon, affectionately known as “the wagoon,” which had a very strong 2.3L engine as evidenced while climbing the hills of Highway 299. He also owned and tinkered with other classic cars such as a Model A, Rambler station wagon, Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Park Lane convertible and his son’s 1967 Mustang.

Howard was a long-time member and officer of the Humboldt Model A Club. He held the position of vice-president for many years and planned all the meal gatherings and car cruises with meticulous work, determining restaurant venues, keeping a card file, and arranging lodging for some of the most memorable trips including Fort Bragg, Gold Beach and the Rouge River. Even after he took ill, Howard continued to phone members about monthly arrangements. His home and garage (shop) hosted club picnics and some of the Christmas gatherings and many “tool talks,” where he was always generous with his car advice.

Howard was also known for his dry sense of humor, often bringing laughter to those around him. He had a unique way of answering many questions with the ending caveat, “unless it rains…”

Summers were spent with his family at Trinity Lake, where Howard taught both of his children to water ski, creating cherished family memories that will last a lifetime.

Howard’s legacy of dedication, love and service will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Howard’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, former students and all those he inspired and mentored throughout his life. He will be deeply missed.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Howard Baer’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.