Encinitas, CA — It is with a heavy heart that we share news of the passing of Lee (Howard) Futch, a long-time Member of the Sign Biz Network, and friend to many. Lee opened his business, Signs On Time, in Carlsbad, CA in 1990. His love of serving customers was exceeded only by his love for golfing and for his wife, Carolyn Woods-Futch and his children. Carolyn called to share that Lee passed on December 5th after being admitted to the hospital for pneumonia.
Lee was a contributor every time the Sign Biz organization made a call to action: He was a donor to the incredible Extreme Home Makeover project for a wounded warrior. He gave to the ISA campaign for digital wall graphics produced by another Sign Bizzer, Fred Barbaria. He was also a Wrap Hero, to transform a doctor-ordered baby helmet into something that brings smiles and happiness.
Carolyn, grandson Beau, and Lee Futch
Before opening his shop three decades ago, Lee was a Senior Programmer for Whitaker’s Electronic Systems. In his early career, he was Director of Manufacturing, and a VP of Operations for Emerald Systems. Lee also obtained his Masters in Business, which led him to consider the benefits of owning his own business. In an interview in 2010, he said, “One benefit was that I could no longer be subject to layoffs in various economic downturns. And secondly, if I was going to be working long hours, I might as well do that for myself.” And Lee could golf when he wanted to. To say that Lee loved to golf is an understatment. As Carolyn puts it, “Lee has a set of golf clubs in the trunk of his car, a set at the shop, and a set at home, just in case the weather is nice. And by the way, the weather is always nice!”
Courtney Gonzales, middle daughter Lisa Ketcham, along with Carolyn, have all been part of Lee’s business over the years. They, along with daughters Leaha and Colleen, and his Sign Biz family all mourn Lee’s passing. A celebration of life is planned for the future. Lee was 79 years old.
Lee with his daughter, Colleen
