On March 11, 2025 Howard H. Watanabe ET1(SS) Retired, embarked on his final patrol upon receipt of his Heavenly Orders from our Supreme Commander. He has shipped out to calm seas and warm breezes to join the company of his shipmates who have gone before him. He is welcomed by our loving God, safely navigating the seas of eternity. Mahalo for your service in Submarines. “Always remembered—Never forgotten”
Known as “Nobber” by his shipmates, Howard was born in 1945, in a Japanese internment camp, in Idaho. He qualified submarines on USS Tiru (SS 416). He also served on USS Catfish (SS 339), and USS Puffer (SSN 652). He retired from the U.S. Navy and resided in Mililani, Hawai’i.
Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base 
Brett, Thank you for printing this. I wonder how many of our Bowfin Base shipmates knew Howard? He was my Tiru shipmate for four years. We had a number of adventures together, ranging from G rated to X rated. Typical boat sailor stuff. Nelson
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I was just remembering Howie to my friends recently, telling them of the small adventures we had, conversations we made. I met Howie when I first arrived in Hawaii in the very early nineties. I had just moved here to marry my wife and was assigned to be Howies helper at Hangar 3 on Hickam working for GTE while I awaited being cleared to work elsewhere. He befriended me and taught me the ropes. I remember his car collection. He had a pair of Model T’s, among others, and his affinity for classic cars rubbed off on me and I bought my first several years later. I was there when he rcvd his restitution from President Clinton for the forced internment of his family at the start of WW2. I can’t temember if he bought a truck or a motorcycle. I just remember being certain that it would be for some sort of motor vehicle. I wish I had gotten to see you at least one more time my friend.
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