A man of courage, love and unwavering spirit, Rick L. Houk, has been released from the chains of his earthly body, finally walking again into Heaven, early Wednesday morning, March 11, 2015, at Marion General Hospital following a 30 year battle with rheumatoid arthritis. He was 60 years old.
On April 24, 1954, Rick was born in Bucyrus, Ohio, the youngest of two boys of the late Virginia (Hord) and Clarence L. Houk Sr. As a family they moved to Marion when he was 5, and he graduated from Pleasant High School in the class of 1972.
While furthering his education at THE Ohio State University, Rick met his wife to be, Karla Arms. They were married on July 2, 1977. She has been by his side, sharing a special love during their 37 years of marriage.
For several years, Rick worked as a chipper at the Marion Power Shovel, until he was no longer able due to his debilitating arthritis.
A man of faith, Rick was formerly a member of the Calvary United Methodist Church. He was an active member of the VFW Post 7201 Men’s Auxiliary, and the Sons of the American Legion Post 368 in Prospect.
With a love for traveling, Rick enjoyed any trip that involved the “3 G’s”… “gambling, golfing and guzzling.” He also loved traveling the countryside, enjoying each moment along the way.
To say Rick was an avid Ohio State Buckeye and Cleveland Indians fan would be putting it mildly. He lived for watching their games both on tv, and especially in person. He also loved playing euchre with his father, uncles and brother.
The only thing more important than the Buckeyes to Rick was his family. He cherished every moment with his wife, son, and precious grandsons (who especially loved climbing on their PaPa).
Rick lived a commendable life, never complaining or feeling sorry for himself despite the lifelong challenges, instead he was always smiling and making the most of his life. His love, dedication and patience touched and enriched the lives of everyone around him.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Karla Houk of Marion; a son, Ryan (Carrie) Houk of Columbus; two sets of twin grandsons: Tyler and Brayden, and Cooper and Lucas Houk; a brother, Clarence (Judy) Houk Jr. of Marion; and several nieces and nephews.
His family will greet friends from 4 – 8 p.m. on Friday, March 13th, at Crosswood United Methodist Church (address below). Services honoring his life will also be held there at 11 a.m. on Saturday, with Pastor Joe Ziraldo officiating. Burial will follow in Grand Prairie Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Crosswood UMC, 1551 Richland Rd., Marion, OH, 43302, On Site Alternative Transport, 222 S. Prospect St., Marion, OH 43302, or a charity of the donor’s choosing.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Rick’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
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