The business community in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador is grieving the loss of one of its most respected and influential leaders following the death of Frank Howard, Founder and President of Capital Auto Group. Howard passed away on December 4, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his family. His passing marks the end of a remarkable era in the province’s automotive and business landscape.
In a statement released by Capital Auto Group, the organization announced the news “with heavy hearts,” reflecting the profound impact Howard had on both the company he built and the community he served. Over the course of more than 50 years, Howard transformed a modest beginning—one dealership—into what is now Capital Auto Group, an expansive network of more than 500 employees representing 10 automotive brands. His vision also led to the establishment of The Howard Group, which manages a significant portfolio of properties through Howard Properties.
Howard’s rise in the industry was marked by determination, integrity, and a commitment to doing business the right way. His leadership earned him some of the highest honours in the Canadian automotive sector, including the prestigious CADA Laureate Award for Ambassadorship. Most recently, he was inducted into the Junior Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador (JANL) Business Hall of Fame, a recognition of both his entrepreneurial success and his influence on future generations of business leaders.
Beyond his accomplishments as an entrepreneur, Howard was widely admired for his generosity. He believed deeply in giving back to the community that supported his business for decades. His philanthropy touched countless lives across Newfoundland and Labrador. He made meaningful contributions to organizations such as the Health Care Foundation, Daffodil Place, Janeway Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, and The Gathering Place, among many others. His charitable efforts reflected not only his success but his unwavering belief that business should uplift communities.
Those who worked with him remember him as a man of steady principles, clear vision, and compassion—a leader who valued relationships as much as results. His approach fostered loyalty and respect throughout his companies and across the industry.
For all his professional achievements, Howard’s greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Annette, and a deeply proud father to his children Jon (Kristy), Jordan, Mike (Maria), and Nick (Sukriti). His grandchildren—Logan, Madden, Molly, and Roman—brought him immense joy, and his happiest moments were those spent with them. Family, for Howard, was at the heart of everything he built and every decision he made.
The Howard family extended heartfelt thanks to friends, supporters, and the dedicated healthcare teams at the Health Sciences Centre and The Ottawa Hospital who cared for him throughout his illness. In keeping with the family’s wishes, no wake or funeral will be held. Details for a celebration of life will be shared in the coming weeks, allowing the community an opportunity to reflect on and honour Howard’s legacy.
Frank Howard leaves behind a thriving business, a strengthened community, and a legacy of generosity and leadership that will be remembered for generations.
