Dennis K. Houck

April 1, 1950 - May 12, 2010
SOUTH BEND - Dennis Keith Houck was born April 1, 1950 to Virgil B. and Doris M. Houck, who preceded him in death. He lived the first five years of his life in Mishawaka and then moved to Lakeville with his parents and two older siblings. In 1968, he graduated from LaVille High School and then attended Emmanuel Bible college in Kitchner, Ontario, Canada for 1 year. He served in the United States Army in Stuttgart, Germany from 1970 until 1972 and received a joint service commendation for his work. On August 5, 1972, Dennis married the former Sharon Rice, who survives him. They have two children, Nathan Virgil Houck (Nicole) of South Bend and Melissa Valene Tapp (Jeffrey) of Elkhart. Also surviving are four grandchildren, Danielle Faith Tapp, Gabrielle Nicole Tapp, Michael Allen Tapp, and Ryan Dennis Houck; a brother, Terry B. Houck of Mishawaka; and a sister, Vicky Connell of Oakwood, Illinois. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother , and good friends of many, Dennis was a quiet man who took pride in his family and his work. He was devoted to his God, his family and his church. For several years, Dennis served as head deacon of the Berean Seventh Day Adventist church. A master carpenter, Dennis' handiwork is evidenced throughout the community and in the various churches he has attended. An avid kayaker, Dennis died doing what he loved. He valued his time on the river as an opportunity for reflection and solitude. His family and friends have been greatly blessed to have known him and will miss him sorely. A memorial service will be held for Mr. Dennis Keith Houck at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 21, 2010 at Berean Seventh Day Adventist Church, 601 West Colfax Street, South Bend, Indiana. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Orphans International Help Line or World Visions which are both child sponsorships programs. Arrangements have been entrusted with Alford's Mortuary where messages of bereavement may be e-mailed to alfordsmortuary@comcast.net c/o Houck Family.