Beverly “Bev” Elaine (Wheeland) Houtz passed away in the early morning of January 8, 2026 in Florida. Bev was just shy of her 89th birthday as she was born January 16, 1937. She was the oldest daughter of Rodney F. and Marie V. (Holt) Wheeland (both deceased). Bev attended State College schools and graduated from State High in 1954. On September 26, 1954, she married Dorsey I. Houtz; he passed away on October 28, 2020. She is survived by their two sons Rodney H. I. “Rod” of Indian Harbor Beach, FL with whom she resided and Dorsey M. “Dude” (Barb) of Williamsport, PA. She is also survived by three grandchildren, Nathan, Colleen and Russell Houtz and two great grandchildren. She is also survived by nieces, nephews and cousins. Bev was also the beloved sister of Keith of State College, Lorraine “Lorrie” Kemp of Port St Lucie, FL, Eleanor “Ellie” (she passed away February 8, 2009), Rod “Rocky” of Orlando, FL, and Zella Hook of Tyrone.
It is said that The Dash between the birth and death date represents the life lived. Bev’s life was well lived – filled with being Dorsey’s helpmate; raising their boys; riding motorcycles – she and Dorsey rode motorcycles in all 50 states; spending time at her church – Shiloh Lutheran Church; making ceramics; having a swimming pool that was later filled in and replaced with a tennis court – she later qualified for Senior Olympics in tennis; enjoying family reunions; having fun with the motorcycle group they belonged to; being blessed that when her first grandchild was born, that grandchild had four generations alive on both Dorsey and her side of the family; she enjoyed writing poetry; her sweet tea was delicious; family Christmas parties; she enjoyed spending time with her State High classmates; spending time with her in her kitchen area (with all the antique utensils on the wall) – she didn’t cook – usually ended up with lots of laughter .. there was so much more and so many memories! After Bev and Dorsey moved to FL, they continued going to church there, continued having fun doing things together and Bev volunteered at her church’s thrift store. Also while in FL, she started walking in the neighborhoods where she lived – her personality made friends and smiles. Through it all, she loved being one of God’s Children.
There will not be any services. The family asks that in her honor, you reach out to loved ones and let them know you care and/or make a new friend with your smile.