Michele Jo Gugas

Michele Jo Gugas, age 68, of Cypress, Texas, went home to heaven on December 30th, 2016 in Montgomery, Alabama. Michele Jo Houser was born in Salina, Kansas on July 20th 1948 to Paul Frederick Houser and Patricia Belle Houser. Michele was the daughter of an Air Force officer and moved throughout her childhood with her brothers, Paul, Mike, and Steve Houser. In her youth, Michele was known for her optimistic and energetic personality, as well as for her athletics and her cheerleading.

Michele was a graduate of the Colegio Americano de Quito, Ecuador. Upon graduation from high school, she attended Wichita State University where she majored in Physical Education. During her time at the University, Michele was given the opportunity to tour and sing as an original member of the group Spider and the Crabs.

June 1st, 1969 Michele Jo Houser wed Lieutenant Chris Gugas Jr. at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. For the next 23 years Michele supported and strengthened Chris’ Air Force career. She devoted much of her time to caring for the airmen and families of the Air Force. Chris and Michele were married for 47 loving years. They were able to create a beautiful life together.

Michele was very creative. At one time, she sold her art to the local community. She was talented at cross-stitch and was extremely gifted with the paint brush. She lovingly painted the walls of many homes. She was an avid sports fan. Michele’s favorite team was the Dallas Cowboys. She also had a love for Mahjong and looked forward to playing with her friends every week. Michele was very active in charitable organizations. Most recently, she was a member of the Northwest Women’s League.

Michele’s most notable and treasured accomplishment was her family. A devoted, loving and selfless wife, mother, and grandmother, Michele was the first to offer a helping hand, jump in the car for a visit, or to send a thoughtful gift. Michele will be remembered for her outgoing personality and contagious enthusiasm. Michele believed that no one was a stranger, just a friend waiting to be made.

To cherish her memory, Michele leaves behind her husband Col (ret.) Chris Gugas, Jr.; daughter Heather Berry and husband Dustin; daughter Nicole Hetsko and husband Joshua; son Chad Gugas and wife Michelle; grandsons; Peyton Berry, Dillon and Todd Hetsko, Seth, Micah, and Isaac Gugas; Granddaughters; Elisa Berry, and Faith, Melanie, and Angeline Hetsko.

Michele was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Patricia Houser and her brothers Paul and Mike Houser. She will be laid to rest in Houston National Cemetery.