Howard Allan Price

Howard Allan Price (1948–2026)

Howard Allan Price, a devoted father, brother, and distinguished rocket scientist, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, at the age of 77. He died at UCD Medical Center in Sacramento surrounded by his family, following a courageous and tireless battle with lymphatic cancer and complications from pneumonia.

A Life of Purpose and Science

Born on September 18, 1948, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Harvey Eber Price and Harriet Winifred Price (Cesander), Howard’s childhood journey took him from the plains of the Midwest to the shores of Lake Tahoe. After a brief period in Modesto, his family moved to Kings Beach in 1958. Howard attended Kings Beach Elementary and was a graduate of Tahoe Truckee High School. He grew up on the North Shore, an environment he spoke of fondly and which forever shaped his lifelong love of the outdoors.

Following high school, Howard moved to the Sacramento region to pursue his passion for science, attending Sierra College before graduating from Sacramento State University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. His brilliant mind and work ethic led him to a storied 40-plus-year career at Aerojet Rocketdyne. Howard retired as a Principal Fellow, the most senior technical role within the organization—a testament to his expertise and the high regard in which he was held by both management and his peers.

Passions and Legacy

Beyond the laboratory, Howard was a man of steadfast dedication. He was an avid runner and a fixture in the local youth sports community as a soccer coach. He found great joy in music and was a lifelong fan of the San Francisco Giants; some of his most cherished summer evenings were spent listening to the radio broadcasts and the storytelling of their legendary announcers.

Following the passing of his wife, Theresa, Howard took up the mantle of her gardening legacy, finding peace and connection in the soil they once shared. He was known for his tremendous work ethic and a selfless nature that led him to always put the needs of others before his own. Even in his final fight against cancer, Howard’s primary concern was ensuring he was never a burden to those he loved.

Family

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Harriet, and his wife, Theresa Mary McCourt.

He is survived by his children: Zachary (Melanie) Price and Gretchen Price, whom he shared with Linda Paris; and his son, Ian Price. He is also survived by his brothers, Gary Michael and Mark Timothy, and his granddaughter, Zoey Price, who was the light of his later years.

Services

In accordance with Howard’s wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date once arrangements are finalized.