Harry J. Atwood Jr.

Harry Joseph Atwood Jr. passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on September 29, 2020. A private service with full military honors was held on October 8, 2020 where his men, family, and friends celebrate his life and raised a toast to commemorate his passing. He was born in New Orleans, LA on October 2, 1931 to the late Mildred James Atwood and Harry Joseph Atwood Sr. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Claire. He graduated from the School of Hard Knocks which would prepare him for his many adventures and achievements throughout the years. He was a talented horseman, a decorated marksman, Marine, incomparable troubleshooter and businessman, a good listener, but better storyteller, just a genuine man, great Dad, and loving Pawpaw. He always had a great interest and subsequent talent when it came to electricity. Samuel Heller being his guide and mentor would foment and enrich this love. This intense passion for all things electrical would ultimately lead to the founding of A&H Electric in 1965 and later A&H Armature Works. Prior to this he would hone his skills at NOAW, Miller Welding, and McDermott until as Chief would always have it, he opened his own business so he could do things his way. His career would land him on many drilling rigs, platforms, derrick barges, and dredges in places like Brazil, Singapore, Mexico, and many in the GOM as well. His time offshore also resulted in his disdain and refusal to ever go to Destin or any other beach destination. As he would say, “That’s like the postman taking a walk on his day off.” His thirst for a challenge would lead him into electrical construction for some years, but his true passion was problem solving and fixing things. Even after Katrina he employed his heroic expertise in certain parts of the city that he loved so dearly. He was so many things to so many people and he had a heart of gold. There are many people, places, and things that Hawk often reminisced about. Some of those (there are too many to mention) are The Elmwood Plantation, Annunciation Street, Camp Plauche, Manales, dove hunts in Northern Mexico, his beloved horses Doblar, Silk, and Poco, the many friends and colleagues with whom he embarked on enviable excursions. His favorite pup Silkavere. His love and knowledge of history, wartime, old westerns, and weaponry was truly encyclopedic. He will be missed dearly, but he had an indelible influence on us all, and his impact endless. Online condolences may be offered at www.gardenofmemoriesmetairie.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harry J. Atwood Jr., please visit our floral store.