Howard Charles Cantor
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Howard Charles Cantor, who left us peacefully from his home with family at his side, on September 10, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on December 24, 1945, in Philadelphia, PA to Al (Abraham) and Francis (Frannie) Cantor, Howard’s life was one of unlimited energy, generosity, and a love of life that touched everyone who knew him.
Howard proudly grew up in Philadelphia, he worked selling programs at Philadelphia Eagle games, hoagies and cheesesteaks at a neighborhood deli, and of course at his dad’s gas station and auto repair shop.
He moved to Santa Barbara in December 1970, following in the footsteps of his sister, Ilene Baroni and later his parents. He quickly became an integral part of the community, working alongside his father at Sunland Gas Station and Auto Repair at the corner of El Sueno Road and Calle Real. Howard’s love of people, coupled with his natural gregarious nature, made him a cherished figure in the town he called home.
After graduating from UC Santa Barbara in 1978 with a degree in Religious Studies, Howard’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to open “Educated,” an auto repair shop at the corner of Castillo and Montecito Streets. Years later, he expanded his vision and founded Auto Body Supply (ABS), a business that served the community for over 20 years. Howard later focused on auto glass, earning his glazer contractor license and transforming the business into a leader in residential and commercial glass construction. He retired and sold ABS Glass in 2014, but not before leaving an indelible mark in the community.
Howard had a passion for sports, a living almanac of sports trivia! He was an animal lover and for most of his life a dog owner. Forever a mechanic, Howard often would be found wrenching on his prized VW bus. During his retirement, one of his favorite hobbies was playing golf with the guys, he played 18-holes twice a week primarily at SB Municipal Golf Course, where he also served as golf marshal for a period of time.
While Howard found success in his work, his true joy was in the people he loved, most especially his family: his wife of 30 years, Trish Allen, his daughter Falen Cantor, son Hunter Cantor, and his beloved grandsons, Peyton and Cade Harrington. His greatest pride was his grandsons. He lived for the moments spent with them, from taking the boys to little league and soccer practice to making sure that the family dinners were always filled with love and laughter. His grandsons were his world, and the image of him cruising in his VW bus with “Surfin’ U.S.A.” blasting, headed for a day at the beach, or Thursday night burgers at the Habit or In & Out will forever be etched in their memories.
Howard was a member of Santa Barbara Lodge No. 192, Free and Accepted Masons of California beginning in 1982. He was honored to serve as a 3rd Degree Mason or Master Mason, a “coach” working alongside new members to teach the codes of being a Mason. Also, a long-time supporter of the Santa Barbara Foresters and Hugs for Cubs, in 2017, Howard joined the Board of Directors for the Foresters, participating in fundraisers and volunteering at games, always bringing his characteristic enthusiasm and dedication. Howard was also a lifelong L.A. Dodger fan, and you rarely would see him without wearing his Dodger hat.
Howard’s legacy will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support of his loved ones and community. Whether he was offering a helping hand or discussing sports, Howard’s presence was felt by all who knew him. His infectious personality, full white beard, and big heart will be missed, but his spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
Howard is survived by his wife Trish Allen, daughter Falen Cantor, son Hunter Cantor, grandsons Peyton and Cade Harrington, his sister Ilene Baroni, nieces Julia Baroni, Natalie Baroni, Andrea Bifano (Jesse Martinez), and many other loved family members.
