Thursday, March 28, 2024

J. Richard “Dick” Houtz

Name of Deceased J. Richard "Dick" Houtz
Age 86
Date of Death 01/22/2021
Date of Birth 03/07/1934
Funeral Home Wetzler Funeral Service,

J. Richard “Dick” Houtz, 86, of Bellefonte, passed away on Friday, January 22, 2021, at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College. Born on March 7, 1934 in Bellefonte, he was the son of the late Edward R. and M. Pearl (Martz) Houtz. On June 24, 1955, he married the love of his life, Marilyn (McKinley) Houtz, who survives him at home after sharing over 65 years of marriage together. 

Dick was a 1952 graduate of Centre Hall-Potter High School, in Centre Hall, where he was active in basketball and soccer. In 1956, he was inducted into the United States Army, where he served as a Military Policeman. He served his country honorably for two years active duty and four years reserve status. While in the service, he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal. He worked as an auto body mechanic for 43 years, most recently at Stocker’s Chevrolet, until he retired in 1997. 

In addition to his wife, Marilyn, he is survived by their daughters, Margaret “Peggi” Irvin-Houtz and Molly Detwiler (Barry Detwiler, Sr.); five grandchildren: Michael E. Detwiler, Alan J. Detwiler, Samuel W. Irvin, Sarah E. Irvin, and Sean P. Irvin, and one great granddaughter, Sadie Lynn Mann-Detwiler. Also surviving is one brother, Ronald H. Houtz (Dorothy) and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by one daughter, Mary Beth Houtz, and three brothers: Robert E. Houtz, James N. Houtz, and Thomas L. Houtz. 

Dick was a lifetime member of the Logan Fire Department in Bellefonte. He was the first Logan Firefighter who used the Jaws of Life. He volunteered to help maintain the Union Cemetery in Bellefonte, for several years. He enjoyed spending time with his friend, Tom Worrick, at Worrick’s Garage. Dick was an avid hunter, motorcyclist, and snowmobile enthusiast. He belonged to several motorcycling and snowmobiling clubs. He made many fond memories traveling the country over the years, especially the two trips that he made on his motorcycle to Alaska. Dick will be most remembered for lending a helping hand to his family, friends, and neighbors. 

Funeral services and burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Logan Fire Company #1, 120 East Howard Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823.