Cecelia Rose Houck, died peacefully at her home, surrounded by family after living fully 98 years.
Cece was one of 13 children born in Bend, Oregon to Joseph and Martha (Leekey) Joanis. She grew up and attended Bend High School. On October 21,1939 she married Lynn Houck at St. Francis Catholic Church and devoted herself to being the best wife and mother she could be. Cecelia and Lynn raised 10 children, 7 boys and 3 girls, first in Bend, followed by several years in Corbett, and finally living in Gresham.
Cecelia learned to drive at age 54, and began a 20 year career as a secretary at St. Henry Catholic Church. She was active in her faith community, serving in a number of ministries over the years.
After retiring, Cece traveled the world with her children, visiting the Southeastern US, Hawaii, North Dakota, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Columbia and Italy. Cece loved sewing, needlework, gardening, crosswords and jigsaw puzzles. She loved music and dance, especially the polka. She loved life, and her faith; a devotion she passed on to her children and grandchildren.
Her secret to a happy life was “minding your own business,” and “that which doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” Cece will be remembered for always having a smile, giggling and laughing often.
Surviving children are Karen Houck Carpenter, Bruce Houck (Judy), Lance Houck (Cherry), Paul Houck (Chris), Mark Houck (Debbie), Laurie Houck Johnson (Lyle), Matthew Houck (Kathy), and Joseph Houck (Ann), 26 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and 21 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lynn, daughter, Lynn Ann Horton (Kenneth) and son, Christopher “Kit” Houck (June).
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