Howard Nat Ellman

Howard N. Ellman, longtime San Franciscan, died peacefully in the early morning of August 15, 2021. He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Elizabeth “Betsy” Ellman (nee Treiman), and by his daughter Janet. He was predeceased by his daughter, Stephanie Sherman, and by his sister, Margie Cutler. Joining with us to hold him in loving memory are his five grandchildren, Adina Landsberg (Sherman); Maria EllmanHorvath; Yonatan Sherman; Jackson Ellman-Horvath; and Leora Pudell (Sherman). Howard was blessed with four great-grandchildren in his lifetime: Bentzion Ezra Sherman; Jesse Landsberg; Sophie Landsberg; Shlomo Chaim Sherman.

An outdoor spirit from his early days by the shores of Lake Michigan, Howard’s happy place was knee-deep in marsh with his faithful Labrador retriever, Hootie, by his side. He spent many summers fishing in Alaska. His stories of bears, wolves, and the northern lights enlivened many a family get-together.

He attended Northwestern University, where he met his wife, Betsy. When he was accepted into Stanford Law School, she followed him to California and they settled in the Bay Area. From there he launched a long and distinguished career in land use and real estate law. He helped shape the San Francisco skyline, and argued a case before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1986. He retired in 2018, when complications from Parkinson’s Disease made it impossible for him to continue.

A prolific writer, Howard was recognized for his essays on wetlands preservation and ethical hunting. He published an historical novel under the title, The Wayfarers, and produced several other manuscripts.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him for his generous heart and his quick wit; his taste for cowboy wisdom and curmudgeonly humor; his bottomless love of life even in the face of sorrow and loss; his undying devotion to family and friends. Memorial services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Howard’s name to the Southern Poverty Law Center.