Harold Green

Harold Green, 94, of Clay, NY passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at the VA Medical Center with his wife, Mary-Lou by his side. Born on April 17, 1931 in New York City, Harold was the youngest in a large family with a close extended family. He had fond memories of lively dinnertime debates and exploring the city on his own. He was industrious from a young age, delivering flowers, helping his older brothers sell imported goods, and taking summer jobs in Cape May, NJ. As a young man, Harold took classes at CCNY, enjoyed listening to the activist and orator Carlos Cooks, and was actively working to promote entrepreneurship in his community, which was his passion in life early on. Harold entered the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Japan as a ground radar superintendent, where he met and married his lovely and talented first wife, Yoko. They had a rich life together, traveling throughout the Pacific and playing cards with other military couples. Harold was a natural leader, rallying those under his command, often troubleshooting electronics with them throughout the night. He especially enjoyed getting to know other people in Japan, going to Sumo wrestling matches, and learning the Japanese language. Harold continued to encourage and inspire people throughout his life, particularly other music lovers and local musicians. He met his second wife, Mary-Lou at a music concert, and music remained a shared passion. They shared a quiet life and enjoyed learning together, frequently engaging in lengthy conversations on a wide variety of subjects. He was an astute observer of current events and politics and had an extensive knowledge of history. He was particularly interested in quantum physics and had the patience and methodical nature of a scientist. Harold was a kind and generous man, with a quiet strength and a disarming sense of humor. He had a deep love of country, and was a devoted provider and protector. Harold was a lifetime member of the DAV, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Air Force Sergeants Association. He was predeceased by his first wife, Yoko and is survived by his wife, Mary-Lou and several nieces. A brief service with military honors will be held at the Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Wednesday, November 19th at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the DAV.

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Harold Green

November 2, 2025