William "Bill" James Houck, age 96, passed away peacefully after a brief illness.  He was  a lifelong resident of Massillon, Ohio, retired machinist, member of the Divine Mercy Parish and longtime Lodge member of the Sons and Daughters of Herman. Bill was preceded in death by his loving wife, Gertrude (Yetzer) Houck, daughter Rebecca (Becky Houck) Els, mother and father, Bertha and Joseph Houck, sister Catherine and brother David. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Nola (Miller) Houck; son Dennis Houck (David Hanslik), grandsons; Sean Els (Tracy Petitt), Marc (Carrie) Els, five great-grandchildren; Rager Els, Ahna Els, Ransom Els, Reid Els, Regan Els and step daughter, Linda Jones, and many extended family members. Over the years Bill enjoyed bowling, golf, pitching horseshoes, playing cards, donating blood, socializing and conversation.  Pa took great pride in his family, working hard and enjoying what life had to offer.  He was a very humble man who was always there no matter what, to advise or just listen.  His farm and garden kept him busy along with waving at all the people who would honk as they drove by.  He enjoyed sharing his life experiences, helping others and saying "wait until you get 96"!. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 5 to 7 P.M. at Heitger Funeral Home - Massillon Chapel, 639 First St. N.E., Massillon, Ohio. Funeral service will be Friday, December 6, 2024 at 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial to follow the service at  Rose Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Akron Children's Hospital One Perkins Square, Akron, Ohio 44308 . Condolences to the family may be made here on our tribute wall. Heitger Funeral Home and Crematory 330-833-3248

Akron Children's Hospital
One Perkins Square, Akron, OH 44308-1062,
Tel: 330-543-1000
Web: www.akronchildrens.org/cms/giving/index.html