Jack A. Houtman

Jack A. Houtman of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, after a short illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Jack was a warm, outgoing “people person” who never met a stranger. He will be deeply missed by the many friends and family members whose lives he touched.

A proud alumnus of the University of Michigan’s School of Engineering, Jack went on to serve his country as a U.S. Army Captain before beginning a distinguished 33-year career with General Electric. Over the course of his life and career, Jack and his family made their homes in Michigan, North Carolina, and Indiana, building lasting friendships in each community.

A man of lifelong Christian faith, Jack served in several leadership positions in the churches he attended and sang joyfully in church choirs throughout his life. He was also an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and the Boy Scouts of America.

Blessed with mechanical talent and a true engineer’s curiosity, Jack had a lifelong fondness for cars—especially the Corvettes he owned and enjoyed over the years. He also loved music, boating, fishing, and growing roses. Jack always had some kind of project underway and found great satisfaction in fixing things, both big and small.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Diane; their three children, Sue Grassley (Dave) of Monroe, Michigan, Bruce Houtman (Diane) of Westfield, Indiana, and Alan Houtman (Holly) of Milford, Michigan; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Houtman of Holland, Michigan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Henrietta Houtman; his sister, Carol Loher; and his brother, David Houtman.

A memorial service celebrating Jack’s life is being planned for early December. Details will be announced once arrangements are complete.

Memorial contributions may be made to Open Doors Food and Clothing Pantry (Westfield, Indiana), Westfield Christ United Methodist Church, or Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity.