Howard Kress (1929-2001) was a dark figure in the family story as word had been passed down that there had been some sort of conflict or major falling out. The what, why, and wherefor was vague other than something about insensitivity, an insult, or spousal rivalry.

Without an accounting for the fracas between family members we can only speculate. As we know brother, sister, and mother, father never made amends as sides were drawn. The feud persisted for the remainder of their natural lives. Nephews and nieces did not reach out nor he to them out.

Howard Kress was twice married. His first wife, Essie, was well liked by family. After they divorced in 1963 the family continued their bond with Essie. Then Howard Kress married Dee Quinlan.

But this is when the blow-up happened. Possibly this was the proverbial last straw in a chain of prior resentments? Delores Quinlan was Catholic and the family she was marrying into was Jewish. Mixed marriages are common now but could this have been part of the tension?

Howard Kress was devoted and supportive of his 2nd wife. He was accepting of Dee’s faith as evidenced in an obituary published:

Howard Kress was seldom mentioned by his original family, possibly out of some regrettable moment or out of chagrin for lack of remorse or for having failed to make things right. Howard and Dee Kress lived happy full lives, in spite of the big fuss.