Arthur Dean Houck

The world became a little less interesting on Tuesday, September 1, 2015 when Arthur Dean Houck, age 77, of Glendive, Montana, passed away with family at his side. Memorial Services will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, September 5, 2015 at Zion Lutheran Church in Glendive. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive has been entrusted with the arrangements. Dean was born August 3, 1938 in Billings, Montana, the son of Albert and Ella (Wilhems) Houck. He was raised and educated in Billings until his family moved to Glendive. Dean completed his senior year at Dawson County High School and graduated in 1956 as Valedictorian of his class. As a young man, Dean was active in Boy Scouts, earning the rank of Eagle Scout. He also belonged to the Luther League (a youth group) who erected the first cross on Hungry Joe hill overlooking Glendive. Following high school, Dean moved to Bozeman, Montana to further his education at Montana State University. True to his intelligent and hard-working nature, Dean earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (a highly rigorous 5-year academic program) in only 4 years, graduating as Salutatorian of his class. After completing basic training in the Army National Guard, Dean returned to Glendive. With only a half of a truck stall from Houck Transportation at his disposal, he started Truck Suppliers and through hard work created a thriving business. He later built a much larger building where he continued to work full-time until his passing. Dean married the love of his life, Donna Mitchell, on December 30, 1962 in Glendive, and to this union three children were born. He was truly a family man. He adored his children and grandchildren; spending time with them brought him immense joy and pride. Those who knew him can attest to the quality of his character. When you talked with Dean, he made you know that he was genuinely interested. Many also know him for his prankster personality. He was always trying to pull a trick on someone and would spend days – even months – to set-up a prank. His laughter was contagious. Dean was a “Jack-of-all-trades”. He knew a lot about everything, but was never pretentious. He excelled at many things, including leather working, wood working, water skiing, jet skiing, snow skiing, snowmobiling, and fishing to name a few. He loved life and enjoyed a challenge – Dean always had a “project” in the works. He went out of his way to try everything and anything he could, like building an actual operating hover-craft, playing the accordion, learning to fly a gyro-copter, growing peanuts, doing glass blowing and learning taxidermy. Dean was especially proud to be a life-long pilot. Dean left his mark on this world in many ways. He was a 50-year member of Masons Lodge #31, a member of both the Elks and Moose Clubs, served on the boards of First Fidelity Bank and the Dawson County Airport, and was a member of the Army National Guard for approximately 20 years. But beyond this impressive list of accomplishments, Dean also left his mark by touching the hearts of people. Dean helped so many without ever seeking acknowledgment or expecting anything in return. His benevolence was always handled privately, often anonymously. Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Ella, one infant brother, Robert, and daughter-in-law, Patty. He is survived by his wife, Donna Houck of Glendive; three children, Deana (Dave) Allison of Glendive, Donald Houck of Glendive, and David (Shannon) Houck of Missoula, Montana; four grandchildren, Daniel (Carrie) Allison, Michael Houck, Rachael Houck, and Derek Allison; one great-granddaughter, Lakyn Houck; one brother, Larry (Marva) Houck of Great Falls, Montana, and numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dean’s name to the charity of one’s choice. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at: www.silhafuneralhomes.com

Arthur Dean Houck

August 3, 1938 - September 1, 2015

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Arthur Dean Houck

August 3, 1938 - September 1, 2015

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

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