We are sad to announce the passing of Howard Brech of Harrison on Dec. 3, 2022, just 27 days shy of his 93 birthday.

Howard was born on Dec. 30, 1929, to Sylvester and Mary (nee Carr) Brech in Dayton, Kentucky. In his younger years and into a teenage years he was active in the YMCA gymnast program. Howard was a Tri-State gymnast champion and would always ask you if you wanted to see him do a handstand. 

Howard married Mary Helen Ennis on Aug. 23, 1947, and they were blessed with five children: Kenneth, Michael, Deborah, Steve and Ronald. Howard and Mary Helen moved their growing family to Harrison, Ohio, in 1952 after getting a job at Fernald. He worked at Fernald Uranium Plant from 1952 to 1972 and finished his career at the Cincinnati Metropolitan Sewer District from 1985 until his retirement in 2000. 

He loved spending time with his family. The yearly family trip to Dale Hallow Lake was one of his favorites. He was quite proud that he could barefoot ski into his 80s. Howard also enjoyed riding his bicycle and playing cards in his later years.

He was preceded in death by his dear wife Mary Helen, his sons Ronald Brech and Steve Brech.

Those left to keep his memory and stories alive are his beloved children Kenny (Karen) Brech, Michael Brech, Debbie (Rick) Dole; daughters-in-law Beverly and Linda Brech; along with 15 grandchildren and 26 great–grandchildren. 

Visitation will be held at the Brater Winter Funeral Home, 201 S. Vine St, Harrison, OH, 45030, on Sunday, Dec. 11, from 4  to 6 p.m. A Blessing service will be on Monday, Dec. 12, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with Father William Dorrman officiating. Burial to follow at Glenhaven Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to the YMCA. (The YMCA made a big impact of Howard’s life and the family wants to make that same impact for someone else.) Funeral Home representative will be available to accept memorial donations during the services. If you are unable to attend mail your donation made payable to YMCA to Brater Winter Funeral home.