It is with great sadness that we share the news that Howard McMichael, Jr. died at the age of 82 on Tuesday, June 2, 2020. Howie, as he was known to family and friends, suffered a stroke on Thursday, May 28, from which he never recovered.
The longtime leader of and inspiration for McMichael Yacht Yards & Brokers, Howie took over the company from his father, Howard McMichael, Sr. Under Howie’s leadership, McMichael grew to one of the country’s major yacht brokerages and yacht servicing companies with over 35 employees operating out of three brokerage offices and two yacht yards.
Howie served as President of McMichael until 2019 at which time he became the company’s Chairman. Under his watchful eye, the leadership of the company transitioned to its current President, Steven Leicht, a McMichael family member, enabling McMichael to remain a family company. Having made that seamless leadership transition, McMichael Yacht Yards & Brokers will continue to operate as it had for decades with Howie at the helm.
Howie will be missed for his gregarious nature and willingness to share his vast knowledge about sail and power boats. His legacy as a business leader and crewmate will continue for generations.
More on the life and contributions of Howard McMichael, Jr., and eventual plans for a celebration of his life will be forthcoming. In the meantime, fair winds and following seas, Howie.
