James Alexander Houston

July 14, 1922 - Sept. 24, 2010

Jim passed away in St. Louis, MO, with his loving family at his side.

Jim was born in St. Louis, MO, to Phillip E. Houston and Josephine (Riddick) Houston, a native of Mallow, Ireland. Jim graduated with St. Vincent's High School Class of 1939. He played football and basketball. As co-captain of the varsity basketball team, he had the winning basket against Christian Bros., but after the buzzer. Jim then willed this shot to junior Frank Cirimele, provided he use it before the game ended. Frank became an all-star. Jim was most appreciative to be considered a friend of team manager Frank Silvestri, SV 40, who was there, sun or shade, to offer one a helping hand.

Jim graduated from UC Berkeley (math) and University of MO (MS engineering).

In WWII Jim served with the 29th Bomb GP, 6th Squadron, in Guam. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters, two Presidential Citations and two Battle Stars. Jim later served during the Berlin Airlift.

Jim was a professional engineer and worked at Martin Marietta on titan missiles, The City of Kansas City and the GSA, retiring in 1994.

Jim greatly enjoyed his volunteer coaching of basketball, baseball, soccer and track at St. Peter's Catholic School. Jim also taught CCD at St. Thomas More Catholic Church for 13 years.

Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years, Helena Rogers Houston; son, Jamie Houston, DMD (Emine); his red head daughters, Maura Rennal and Briana Houston; grandchildren Donovan, Deniz, Kelly and Jeffrey; and many nieces and nephews on the West Coast.

Preceding him in death was twin sister Marye Frances Kukkuruza (Robert), daughter Dr. Monica Dittmar, sister Josephine (Jim) Von Tellrop and sister-in-law Mary Fahey.

Jim requested that on the day of reading his notice of departure that you be nice to your neighbor. He will be greatly missed by all.