Howard Raabe

Howard S. Raabe, Jr., Easton resident since 1975, passed away peacefully at home on October 6th, just days after his 80th birthday. Mr. Raabe was born in Summit, New Jersey, to the late Howard S. Raabe and Esther Tote Raabe. A graduate of Syracuse University, where he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, Mr. Raabe enjoyed a long and successful career as an architect. His expertise and friendly personality won him a long list of loyal clients.

A lifelong music lover, over the years he sang with the Greenwich Choral Society, the choir of St. Paul’s Church in Fairfield, and the Greater Meriden Oratorio Chorus. He participated annually in the Yale Glee Club’s Messiah sing, and most recently sang with the More Music Festival in Darien.

For many years he served as senior warden at Calvary St. George’s Episcopal Church in Bridgeport, where he revitalized the congregation and worked diligently to restore its historic building. He brought music to the church, including organ recitals, choral concerts, Gilbert & Sullivan performances and an annual Christmas concert. He also enjoyed writing, and published St. George’s “The Dragon Slayer,” a weekly commentaryon church activities and news stories.

Mr. Raabe was active in historic preservation, lending his expertise to the restoration of many historic buildings across the state, and participating in local historic district associations. He amassed a notable collection of antique tools and a large personal library. He also recently helped to organize Citizens for Easton’s 16th annual Farm Tour. He was known as a problem solver, eager to support a good cause. Sociable, he made friends easily and was always ready for a chat. Family and friends will miss his lively sense of humor and knowing chuckle.

Mr. Raabe was predeceased by his son Nathaniel Damien Raabe and his brother Patrick J Raabe. He is survived by his son Josiah of Easton, his grandchildren Max, Zoe, Declan, Sofia, and Lilly Raabe, his twin sister Virginia Hamer of Florida, his brother Johnny Bittman of California, several nieces, and his cat TLK (Tiny Little Kitty).

The Memorial Service and reception will take place at Calvary St. George’s Episcopal Church, 755 Clinton Avenue in Bridgeport on Wednesday, October 29 at 1 PM.