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Bessie Houck Obituary
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Bess was preceded in death by her mother – Lucy Iams Orndoff; her father – Clarence Orndoff; and her step-mother – Marge Orndoff. She is survived by cousins in Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Bess graduated from Hollidaysburg Area High School Class of 1959. She worked as a legal secretary in Pennsylvania and Washington, DC. She retired as a legal secretary from the Hogan Levells Law Firm in Washington, DC. After retirement she moved to Seaford, DE to enjoy time with her many "Mica Boxers." She spent countless hours: raising, training, and showing her precious Boxers. They brought much joy to her life. She was totally devoted to her Boxers and their well-being.
Bess was a devout Christian who worshipped at Gethsemane Church and The Life Center. She cultivated many lasting friendships at both churches. She adopted the family of: Justin & Heather Demastus and their children: Bryce, Adaline, and Gabriella.
She enjoyed playing "Bridge" with her card group at "Nanticoke Senior Center."
A Memorial Service will be held for Bess at "Gethsemane Church" on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, with a visitation 11:00 a.m. – 12 noon and the Service will begin at 12 noon. The Service will be presided over by Pastor Tim Banks, Pastor Jordan Forstan and Disciple Justin Demastus. All are welcome to attend.
A private burial will take place at Rosemont Cemetery in Waynesburg, PA on July 12, 2025. Officiated by Disciple Justin Demastus. Bess will be laid to rest next to her mother Lucy Orndoff along with the ashes of her many "Mica Boxers" at her side.
Contributions in Bess' honor can be made to any of the following organizations, Compassionate Care Hospice, Amedisys, Inc, Attn: Amedisys Foundation, 416 Williams Street, Suite 101, Milford, DE 19963, Gethsemane Church, 2701 Woodland Ferry Road, Seaford, DE 19973; or the Life Center, P.O. Box 878, Greenwood, DE 19950.
Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Donna Jones
July 20, 2025
I'm so sorry I missed the service. Bess was a friend to me and offered positive encouragement at the perfect time. She would tell me my mom would be proud of me. She offered boxer advice whenever I asked for myself or for other boxers I knew. I met her through mutual friends at boxer shows. God Bless. Another Angel in Heaven.
Sherry Miller
July 19, 2025
Bess ,was a very dear friend. I met her through one of her dearest friends, and mine,Sandy Harshberger she and Sandy were friends for over 60 years. I imagine that Sandy was one of the first ones to greet her when she entered the gates. God bless you until all of the gang meets again.
Lois Schwechtje
June 27, 2025
Gonna miss you Bess.
Pamela McMillan
June 26, 2025
Of course we met through our beloved boxers. She is a cherished friend and was the greatest encourager during the illness of my husband, Michael, and his passing. I miss you and your prayers, Bess!
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Ann Gilbert
June 26, 2025
I am so saddened to hear of Besse's.passing. e forced a unique friendship over the years. Our passion for Boxers was the tie that bound us together. We only go to visit in person at ABC but our friendship remained intact. We both tended to be a little outspoken at times and we always focused on keeping the breed we love foremost in our hearts. God speed Bess I know there are many Boxers greeting you at Heaven's door.
Virginia Shames
June 26, 2025
So many wonderful memories with Bess and her boxers- she was a long time member of the Potomac Boxer Cub, and was a major factor in rebuilding the Club years ago. She will be missed by her many friends.
Diana Brittingham
June 26, 2025
Bess was a cherished member of Nanticoke Senior Center and will be miss by all who knew her. Our deepest sympathy to her family.
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