Harold S Echavaria

On July 15, 2022, Harold S. Echavaria passed away peacefully at the age of 94 in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was a dedicated, loving, and honorable father, stepfather, uncle, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

A career veteran of the U.S. military, Harold was born in Waimanalo, Hawaii on August 8, 1927 to Roman and Fausta Echavaria. He is survived by his sister, Cristina, and was pre-deceased by brothers Felix and Robert. Hawaii always had a special place in his heart.

Harold enlisted in the U.S. Army towards the end of World War II at the age of 18 and was deployed to Italy, where he met and married his first wife Anna DeBustis. His spirit lives on through their two children David and Louise, six grandchildren Vince, Anna, Anthony and Marianna, Valeria, Salvatore, six great-grandchildren, loving daughter-in-law Kristin, and numerous nephews and nieces in Hawaii.

Harold found love again with his second wife Vivian Cooper, whom he met while stationed near Bisbee, Arizona towards the end of his military career. They bought a house and lived out their lives together in Las Vegas, where he was a father figure to her daughter Laura and granddaughters, Rikki, Jenny, and Sarah.  

He served an honorable 24 years in the U.S. Army, enlisting as a private and retiring as a Sergeant Major, a rank he earned when he was just 35 years old. He was honored with the Bronze Star Medal for his service during the Tet Offensive in Vietnam. A veteran of post-WW2, the Korean War, and Vietnam War, Harold traveled the world during and after his long military career. 

He had continued success in the civilian world, working for 20 years in Las Vegas as the Chief Comptroller for the Stardust Hotel & Casino, Marina Hotel & Casino, and the Fremont Hotel. Harold loved food, particularly seafood and ethnic cuisine. He lived his life in a regimented and orderly fashion. He was passionate about remaining active by walking, golfing, donating to various charities and being faithful to the Catholic Church.

He will be greatly missed by his loving family, friends, and fellow veterans.   

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Harold’s name to the ASPCA or Habitat for Humanity.

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