William R. "Bill" House

William R. (Bill) House, aka "The Dog Guy," left this world on Wednesday December 31, 2025. Born in
London, KY, Bill enjoyed school and basketball. He earned a BS degree in Sociology from EKU and a
Master's degree in counseling from Marymount College in PA. He worked a few years for Uncle Sam,
and while in the Army, secured his dream assignment accompanying some of his favorite blues legends
throughout Europe. After leaving the service, he went to New York City, where he met the love of his
life, Pauline, who shared his love of music. After only two dates, the first to a Muddy Waters show and
the second to French pianist Claudio Arrau, they knew they were meant for each other. Indeed, they
shared a love supreme. Together they raised two daughters, who each went on to marry a man nearly
as kind as their dad.
Bill spent his life bringing art and culture to his local community, helping those in need, and befriending
dogs of all kinds. He was an avid collector of music, books, and local art. He was a storyteller and a
scholar who loved to share his knowledge with anyone who was interested. He not only loved to read,
but also wrote stories and essays. Bill loved blues, jazz, and bluegrass, William Faulkner, Flannery
O'Connor, and especially Cormac McCarthy. Unfortunately, his earthly body failed him before his mojo
stopped working.
Bill is survived by his wife Pauline Melikian House, daughters Marta Wood (Jack) and Karen Rucker
(Scott), grandchildren Jade Rucker (Nick Oliver), Michael Wood (Becca Dunn), Caly Rucker (Evan
Holbrook), Rachel Wood (Christian Sullivan), Nikola Ricker, and Quinn Rucker, and a great
granddaughter, Maddy Wood.
A visitation will be held at Somerset First Presbyterian Church on Monday, January 5 th, from 4:00 to 7:00
pm, with Mother Chris officiating a brief memorial service following.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to the Somerset-Pulaski County Humane Society, PO Box 448, Somerset, KY, 42502.
Somerset Undertaking Co. and Crematory is honored to assist in the services for Bill and family during
this time of loss. You may view and sign the online guest register at SomersetUndertaking.com.