Photo courtesy of HILDEBRAND - RUSS FUNERAL HOME - Rhinelander
Apr 24, 1963 - Dec 28, 2025
Rest in Peace John. Our sympathy to the family and friends you left behind.
Mike & Nancy Houle
January 06, 2026 | Wabeno, WI | Family
John was a great guy that will be truly missed.
James Carley
January 05, 2026 | Oshkosh, WI | Friend
Shine on babe, until we meet again. I love and miss you SO much.
Julie Sweeney
January 05, 2026 | Harshaw | Significant_other
John will be missed by many, he always had a comeback and sense of humor like no other. RIP BUDDY. ❤
Charlie Williams
January 05, 2026 | Catawba, WI | Family
John was a good friend of ours, we spent a lot of time with him, fond memories and good times.
Rick and Darlene Deiss
December 30, 2025 | Omro, WI | Friend
John Victor Houle
April 24, 1963 ~ December 28, 2025
Age ~ 62
John Victor Houle, age 62, of Harshaw, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, surrounded by family after a short battle with cancer. John was strong and steadfast to the very end, fighting with unspoken determination.
John was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, on April 24, 1963, to Joan and Allen (Ken) Houle. He married Rachelle (Chelle) Nelson on April 19, 1986, and they spent 34 years together raising their children, Nicky and Renny in Omro before eventually retiring to Wabeno, where they enjoyed their time together until Chelle’s passing on January 31, 2020.
John spent more than 20 years working as a machinist at Weber Machine in Oshkosh, a job he truly loved. He was dedicated and reliable, took great pride in his work, and valued the friendships he built along the way. Outside of work, John found his greatest joy in the outdoors; hunting, fishing, camping, and 4-wheeling, as well as spending time with his family and friends. Family meant everything to John, and he never missed a chance for good company, a cold Busch Light, and some mischief. Those fortunate enough to know John were blessed with memories that will never be forgotten.
John and Julie Sweeney met in 2021, fell in love, and became engaged in early 2022. They made a wonderful pair, and Julie lovingly encouraged John to step outside his comfort zone and experience things he might not have otherwise enjoyed. She remained devoted by his side throughout his illness.
John is survived by his fiancée, Julie Sweeney; his daughters: Nicole Houle (David Erdmann) and Renee (Jeremy) Edson, Julie’s children: Alysha Sweeney (Jordan Marsh) and Jake Sweeney; grandchildren: Adyssen, Lucille, Emmy, Olivia, Maisyn, Avery, Rory, and Cian. John was so proud to be a grandpa and loved any chance to spend time with his grandkids.
John is also survived by his parents Allen (Ken) and Joan Houle; siblings: Ken (Heather) Houle, Kathy (John) Curtis, Joe (Sherry) Houle, Kevin (Rhonda) Houle, Brian (Dawn) Houle, Robbie Houle (Denise Porter), and Karen Tlachac. As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and soon-to-be family who loved him dearly.
John was preceded in death by his wife, Chelle Houle; his grandparents, Al and Percy Houle; and many cherished relatives who welcomed him home.
John had a wide circle of friends who were more like family, a reflection of his kind heart and steady presence. Their unwavering support and friendship meant the world to him and are deeply appreciated.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Aspirus Hospice and Hildebrand Funeral Home for their compassionate and gentle care.
Family and friends are welcome to join us on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 12:00PM – 4:00PM to remember John Houle at the American Legion Hall, 4494 N Branch St., Wabeno, WI.
In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and shared memories.
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