January 31, 2022

Wendell “Mr. Hower” Hower was a true value to Manheim Townhip and to all who worked with him. He was a leader in the truest sense of the word. Every decision he made was in the interest of students and staff – even if he had to take a stand against the Board or District Office. 
I will cherish the guidance and counsel he provided to me as a teacher and as a principal. He offered straightforward advice and imparted wisdom from his years of service. He never minced words even if it was not what I wanted to hear.
I can honestly say that I became a better educator and a better person for having known Wendell. He served as a mentor and model to me in so many ways. As a new administrator, I often asked myself what would Wendell do in this situation.
My condolences to Wendell’s family and to all who are feel a sense of loss.

January 29, 2022

He was the one of the most unstuffy and approachable teachers in my memory.  To be a successful and effective principal for that many years in such a diverse time was quite an amazing feat. My sympathies.

January 29, 2022

Dear Sylvia, Barbara, Lois and Family.
In 1978, I was hired by Mr. Hower to teach physical education and join the outstanding staff that he developed at Manheim Township.  Working at MTHS molded my educational career under his tutelage.  You could say that I followed in his footsteps, having first working as a teacher/coach and then as athletic director.  With his encouragement and guidance, I left Manheim Township and went to Governor Mifflin as an Assistant Principal and then to Schuylkill Valley as High School Principal (does this progression in education sound familiar), retiring after 35 years.  I would run into him as PIAA meetings and we always talked about the MTHS years!  I could not thank him enough for all that I learned from him as an administrator; ideals such as being student-centered in your philospohy, being firm, fair, and consistent in your dealings with teachers, students, and parents, and always being prepared with an agenda for your meetings!  He mentored me, both directly and indirectly and I could not thank him enough for all of his encouragement over the years.  Concluding, as you may have noticed in Ken Husler’s message as well, your dad was always “Mr. Hower” to all of the teaching staff that worked for him, as he commanded and deserved that respect from all of us.  An outstanding educator and mentor that I will remember fondly.

January 28, 2022

A true leader and gentleman.  Wendell touched many lives in a most positive way.  In many ways he was a cosmopolitan individual who was very successful with many groups and associations.

January 28, 2022

There can be only one Wendell Hower. He will remain forever the ultimate role model of service. We are better persons and communities because of Wendell. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

January 28, 2022

My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Wendell. Wendell has had a lasting impact on my career as an Athletic Director and was always willing to provide guidance for any questions I might of had. I was at Warwick for 8 years before moving on to Cedar Cliff HS for the past 9 years. Wendell was quick to say Hi when he saw me and to check in to see how things were going for me. I always appreciated that. 
 
John Kosydar 

January 28, 2022

Dear Sylvia, Barbara, and Family–
I had the privilege of working for Mr. Hower as a music teacher at MTHS for many years. Simply stated, it was my honor in every way. He was a leader that, through his objectivity and fairness, commanded respect. And my respect for him, was such that I never wanted to disappoint in any way. His door was always open when I had issues to deal with, and he was a superb listener and advisor. It should be noted that he always held the student and program interests in the highest regard, and there is no higher accolade for a school principal than this. I will always have great memories of working with and for Wendell, and will miss him greatly!
Kindest Regards, Ken Husler

January 28, 2022

Dear Family
What an amazing person Wendell was, and I am honored that I could call him my friend.  When I served as MT’s assistant superintendent in the mid 1980’s, I enjoyed our frequent chats.  He was so insightful and I valued his advice.
Wendall and my Dad worked together as baseball umpires.  Wendall would always tell me that when he showed up at the game site and saw my Dad, he felt good because he knew they worked together so well.  That was Wendall…praising someone when it was deserved.
I will always smile when I remember Wendall.  My sincerest condolences to you, his family.
Dennis Denenberg