Howard P. Freers

In Memoriam: Howard P. Freers Howard P. Freers, born on August 13, 1926, in Indianapolis, Indiana, left us on January 30, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of engineering prowess, dedication to family, and a profound love for Ford Motor Company. Howard’s heart belonged to his family. In 1947, he married the love of his life, Eleanor, wife of 70 years, who preceded him in death. Together they had three sons, Steven (Christine), David (Marina), and the late James "Jim" (Virginia). Howard’s legacy also lives on through six grandchildren Dana (Patrick) Erin (Robert), Stephanie (Jordan), Frederick (Lisa), James (Melissa) and Jeffrey (Olivia). The joys of his life were his twelve great-grandchildren Sidney, Quinlan, Grayson, Sebastian, Emelene, Fischer, Griffin, Luke, Adelynn, Lila, Eleanor and Benjamin. A proud alum of Arsenal Technical High School in Indianapolis, Howard embarked on his academic journey at Rose Polytechnic Institute in September 1943, graduating with honors and a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering in October 1948. His commitment to education was unwavering, even amid the tumultuous times of World War II, during which he served in the United States Navy from January 1945 to July 1946. Howard's professional journey began at the Chrysler Corporation in November 1948, where he dedicated himself to the automotive industry. During his tenure, he attended the Chrysler Institute of Engineering, earning his Master of Automotive Engineering in 1951. In 1955, Howard transitioned to the Ford Motor Company, where he remained until 1988. A true Ford enthusiast, he thrived in various roles, earning promotions and accolades throughout his illustrious career. A true high point was from 1971 until 1975 he was Chief Car Engineer of Ford Motor Company. His commitment and contributions to the automotive world were recognized with honors such as the Society of Automotive Engineers Fellow (1982), Distinguished Senior Member (1996), Engineering Society of Detroit Fellow (1974), Eminent Engineer-Tau Beta Pi (1978), and an Honorary Doctor of Engineering from Rose Hulman in 1990. His passion for innovation and determination led him to become an integral part of the development of the iconic Boss 302 Mustang, earning him the title of the "Boss of 302." Howard's love for skiing, traveling the world with friends, golfing, adventures up north, and cherished moments at Paradise Lake defined his leisure pursuits. Howard’s engineering brilliance made him a respected figure in his field and in his family. Known for his problem-solving skills and an innate ability to tackle challenges head-on, Howard was not just a brilliant engineer but also a great provider, fun-loving, generous, and caring family man. A small private family gathering will be held at the funeral home, and a Celebration of Life Service will be scheduled for a later date in the future. Details will follow, when more information is available. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Howard's memory to Rose Hulman Institute of Technology or to the Wounded Warriors Project. As we bid farewell to Howard P. Freers, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by achievements that have left an indelible mark on the automotive industry and all those who knew him, especially his family. May his memory continue to inspire generations to come, and may he rest in eternal peace.

Howard P. Freers

August 13, 1926 - January 30, 2024