Garrett “Gary” William Houck, age 73, of Spring, Texas, died Tuesday morning, July 14, 2020, surrounded by his family at his beloved home. Born November 30, 1946, in Philadelphia, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents Paul John Houck, Jr., Elizabeth (Hesselbacher) Houck, and first wife Rosemary (Schuessler) Houck.
Gary attended St. Joseph Preparatory School in Philadelphia, PA. He continued his education at Penn State University graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. After graduation, he served 2 years in the United States Army. He later went on to get his Masters in Business Administration from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.
Gary completed a fulfilling career of 35 years at Merck pharmaceutical company. He held various positions during his time at Merck. Most of his tenure was spent supporting the development of new treatment options for patients. Gary was a strong communicator with excellent relationship building skills. His biggest strength was managing and developing employees. His positive impact was felt even after his retirement.
Gary truly lived his life to the fullest. He often said, he lived like the Frank Sinatra song; “My Way.” He loved spending time with family and friends, traveling, golfing, bowling, taking trips to the beach, and watching Penn State football. Gary enjoyed singing silly songs to his grandchildren and serving them ice cream for breakfast. He had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way. He was a friend to all. Gary had the biggest heart and would do anything he could to help others.
For more than 17 years Gary fought his battle with Parkinson’s Disease. One of the things that helped Gary with this fight was the time he spent at Rock Steady Boxing North Houston. Boxing helped to enhance his quality of life. He also built some amazing friendships.
Gary is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 27 years, Louise “Weezy” Houck; along with his daughters: Jamie Chappell and husband Jerry, Nancy Rudolph and husband John, Michele Holter and husband Michael; son: Garrett “Rett” Houck, Jr.; 7 loving siblings; and many nieces, nephews, and relatives. He was a beloved Pop-Pop to his 9 grandchildren: Shawn, Jennifer, Anna, Nicole, Courtney, Mikayla, Mitchell, Megan, Maddy and 4 great-grandchildren: William, Oliver, Canaan, & Brooks. Gary welcomed all and treated everyone like family. He was a Pop-Pop to many.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be planned later due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In memory of Gary’s life, the family request that memorial donations be made to Rock Steady Boxing North Houston. The money will be put to good use in continuing the fight against Parkinson's Disease! You may make your contributions via the following:
Zelle by using [email protected]
PayPal by using [email protected].
Venmo @dawn-renken
Checks can be mailed to 11500 NW Freeway #618, Houston, Texas 77092 made out to "Rock Steady Boxing North Houston." Please put in the memo line Gary Houck's name. If you would like to contribute via credit card, you may call 713-725-7794. Be prepared with credit card number, name on card, expiration date, CIN, email and zip code.
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