Ralph "Howard" Metcalf Jr.

Ralph “Howard” Metcalf Jr., our beloved husband, father, and “Papa” passed away at home peacefully, yet suddenly, on Sunday, October 3, 2010.

His joys in life were gardening, being outdoors in his avocado grove and hiking and spending time with his family.

Born to Ralph and Emily Metcalf on July 16, 1935 in El Centro, Calif., he was the eldest of four sons. He married his soul mate, Fleeta, on April 12, 1958. He was drafted into the U.S. Army and faithfully served from 1958 to1961, when he was honorably discharged. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Inspection from Cal Poly, Pomona in 1963.

Shortly after graduating from college, he started working for the San Diego County Agricultural Department. From inspecting plants to candling eggs, he spent 36 years working as an agricultural inspector and retired as a Deputy Agricultural Commissioner. He loved his occupation more than most people do.

Howard is survived by his wife Fleeta, two daughters, Tami (Tom) Toomire and Diane (Dan) Wilbers; and grandchildren Adam and Eric Toomire, Jonathan and Caitlin Wilbers. He also leaves behind three brothers, his 96 year-old mother-in-law, Beulah Kimbrell, and many nieces and nephews. If a man’s worth is measured by the number of people he touched, then Howard was the richest of men. We love and miss you, Papa!

There will be a funeral service at Berry-Bell & Hall Fallbrook Mortuary on Thurs., Oct. 7 at 11 a.m.