Harry D. Houck

Harry D. Houck, age 82, of Bethel and formerly of Robesonia, passed away on Tuesday evening, April 28, 2026, at his residence with his family by his side.

He was the beloved husband of Patsy A. (Boyer) Houck, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage.

Born in Robesonia on May 25, 1943, Harry was a son of the late Jeremiah R. and Mary E. (Kalbach) Houck.  He was the youngest of 18 children and the last surviving sibling of the Houck family.  His passing marks the close of a remarkable generation, and he is now reunited with those who went before him.

Harry attended Conrad Weiser High School and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army.  Along with his dedicated years of service, the Houck siblings proudly served a total of 114 years of military service.  

He retired from Glen Gery Brick after nearly 30 years of dedicated employment.

Harry loved hunting, fishing, watching NCAA Women’s Basketball, and enjoying western movies.  He also served as past president of the Robesonia Fish & Game Association and was a volunteer fireman with Pioneer Hose Company in Robesonia, where he also served as former Fire Chief.  For many years, Harry helped coordinate and plan the children’s fishing rodeo by the Falls in Robesonia, creating a legacy that lit up the faces of thousands of children.  His life reflected a deep connection to service, his community, and the cherished traditions he held dear.

In addition to his wife, Patsy, Harry is survived by four daughters: Sheila M. Houck, Sheryl L. Houck, Christina M. Hershey, wife of Bradley, and Lisa A. Houck; eight grandchildren: Noah, Zander, Caliyah, Davie, Colton, Lily, Izabella, and Jared Jr.; and many nieces and nephews.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Bradley Hershey, Jr.; his best friend, Don Rittle, Sr., and 17 brothers and sisters.

Per Harry’s wishes, in lieu of services and flowers, memorial donations may be made in Harry’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Cole Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Robesonia, is handling arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.ColeFH.com.

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