Howard LaMere Obituary

Howard LaMere RIP: September 26, 1950- December 29, 2014

A man of foresight and innovation, Howard contributed to many Rogue Valley institutions. His resume spanned many years and degrees, a testament to his incredible and engaging intelligence. Howard worked in arts and communication; then expanded to technology, including sound, film, radio, and the web. He was fascinated by the possibilities of technology paired with human talent to achieve social change. Howard was self-described as logical, creative, intuitive, thinking outside the "bag", with a talent for troubleshooting. His friends and family will remember Howard's charismatic charm, intense focus on the moment, unconditional love, appreciation of the absurd and brilliant mind. He lived a full life.

Howard was an artist and a musician who played guitar and piano with devotion and joy. He was the voice we all woke up to on KSOR (JPR) for many years. Ante Meridian was an ingenious fusion of jazz and classical music interspersed with news. Howard had a lovely, smooth voice that aired at 5 a.m. every morning. He literally set the mood for the day. Bringing attention to the local music scene, LaMere used to direct national broadcasts of the Britt Music Festival concerts. He also worked at the Rogue Gallery, Actors Workshop, Southern Oregon Public Television, and Gold Beach Theater.

Howard was a committed community member and for years gave his time and energy to environmental and social causes. He served on the board of the Ashland Community Food Store and was part of the original Siskiyou Regional Education Project. He produced a bioregional report, supported an annual conference and a quarterly journal bringing together all factions concerned about our region. He spent time working with the City of Ashland, Rogue Community College, Rogue Institute for Ecology and Economy, Rogue Interpretive Center, Southern Oregon Historical Society, Southern Oregon University, Southwestern Community College, Mc Henry & Associates, and CNS Productions. His genuine, hearty laughter will be missed.

Howard lived with his son Ben LaMere and his grandson Sava. Together they were the real-life two and a half men. Each in their own life stage working, schooling, socializing as a family. He leaves behind his father, Howard La Mere Sr.; a sister, Janet; and brother, Randy, former wife Linda Becker who remained a steadfast friend and co-parent of Ben. Our town will miss his welcoming affect, engaging conversation, and sweet endearing spirit.