Norman J. Omer Houle

Norman O. Houle, Sr., 97, of Barrington, NH passed away peacefully on October 15, 2023 at Watson Fields in Dover surrounded by his family. Norman, also known as "Houley", was born on July 28, 1926 in Lewiston, ME. He was the son of Charles Edward Houle and Marguerite Bibianne (Dubuc) Houle. During World War II, he served in the US Navy as an Air Crewman on a four-engine, land-based patrol aircraft. After receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1947, Houley returned to Maine and learned to fly on the GI Bill.
Houley was hired by Northeast Airline as a Copilot in 1957, which then merged with Delta Airlines in 1972. He retired from Delta Airlines as a Captain on the L-1011 airplane in 1985. Houley continued his love of flying post-retirement by flying his Piper Warrior airplane at many seacoast airports including Skyhaven and the Hampton Airfield. Many stories were shared with fellow pilots at airports or in his hangar as he loved to discuss aviation. As a Maine aviation historian, he presented the history of Maine aviation at many events and contributed to both Maine and New Hampshire Aviation Museums.
He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Scott Charles Houle.
Houley is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Kathleen "Kay" (Cushing) Houle, sons, Mark and wife Sue of Durham, Craig and wife Donna of Milton, and Norman Jr. "Chip" and wife Sharon of Barrington. He also leaves a daughter-in-law, Wen Ho Houle of Dover, 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
In 1963, Houley and Kay purchased "The Camp" on Long Lake in Harrison, Maine where they enjoyed five decades and witnessed three generations of his family swimming, fishing, water skiing and playing card games. Houley was also known as Dad and Papa and was a kind-hearted man who will be deeply missed by his family.
At his request there will be no services. The family would like to thank Watson Fields for their exceptional care and support during Houley's brief stay as well as the staff of Cornerstone VNA.