My husband is 69, overweight, sedentary. he just said he is short of breath & a bit uncomfortable. should he go to the er?

Maybe: If it is acute in nature, probably. He is at risk for cardiac disease, pe's and other health related issues.

Yes!!: Based on your description of him, he is at high risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. If shortness of breath and/or chest/neck/upper back pain suddenly comes on or recurrently, then it must be evaluated immediately. It may be the difference between life and death.