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Robert Houk Obituary
Louisville - Robert "Bob" L. Houk, 87 years old, passed away May 17 surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born in Louisville, Ky on August 17, 1931 and attended Holy Cross Grade School, St. Mary's Seminary, Flaget High School and Vanderbilt University. He was a humble, tough and loving man.
He was predeceased by his father, Robert L.; mother, Lisetta; sister, Rosita; and wife Shirley Scully. A fantastic athlete, Bob was named All-State in both football and basketball at Flaget, received an athletic scholarship to Vanderbilt and played Minor League baseball. He coached for many years at Flaget, Trinity, St. Edward and the Jeffersontown Little League. His former players will recall his discipline, toughness and "Burning Desire" which lead to success both on the field and in life.
He retired from Emerald International and enjoyed all sports, cooking, spending time with his family and socializing with his many friends.
He is survived by his children, Gary, Bo (Patti), Donna Howell (Larry), Diane Lloyd (Ed), Tommy, Beth Howell (Donald), Julie (Beth), Jeff (Kris); grandchildren, Jesse, Abbi, Tiffany, Lauren, April, Chad, Holly, Ashley, Nick, Brigid, Adam, Elijah, Noah, Logan, Ethan; and 14 great-grandchildren.
A Funeral mass will be held at 10:00am Wednesday, May 22 at St. Edwards Catholic Church, 9608 Sue Helen Drive, Louisville, KY 40299. The family will receive visitors from 2:00-8:00pm, Tuesday, May 21 at Ratterman Funeral Home, 12900 Shelbyville Rd, East Louisville.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Shirley Scully Houk Endowment for tuition assistance at St. Xavier H.S., 1609 Poplar Level Rd., Louisville, KY 40217.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Houk
Sponsored by The Courier-Journal.
May 22, 2019
Jim rapier, live long friend will always cherish good memories of Bob
Frank Burch
May 21, 2019
"Desire, Determination, and Guts"! I was lucky enough to have Coach Houk for 1 year as a 7th grader, 47 years ago, but those words resonate with me every time I hear his name. Best coach, by far, I ever had in any sport. He worked as hard with the last player off the bench as he did with the best player on the team, and treated every kid the same.
Always admired and respected Mr. Houk. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
May 20, 2019
A rare man, so many childhood memories. Always loved visiting all of you. There was so much fun with the baseball games in the yard with everyone. Your dad was always great to me, always offering a welcome hug and lap (lol). Loved him dearly. He will be missed and always thought of fondly. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love you.
Ernie and Judy
Bob Searcy
May 20, 2019
Gary, to you and your brothers and sisters.....my sincerest condolences on the passing of your Dad. I know he had such a positive impact on so many people throughout his life.....through his coaching, or just by having conversation with others, one of them being myself!! From the time we were kids, I always saw your Dad as larger than life!!!
Rest in Peace, Bob....
Donna Ritz Laemmle
May 19, 2019
Truly, one-of-a-kind, your Dad will be sadly missed by all who were so blessed to know him...a J'town icon, for sure! All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to all!
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Ratterman Brothers Funeral Home - East Louisville12900 Shelbyville Road, Louisville, KY 40243
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