On Thursday evening June 29, 2017, Fred Houghton passed from this life in his 88th year at Talarico Lodge, Castlegar, BC.
He is survived by sons Dean (Anne) and Keith (Eilenna), nine grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren, and many extended family members.
Fred was predeceased by Elsa his wife of 61 years; daughter Carla Adams (John); and son Douglas Houghton (Roxanne).
Life began for Fred in Alberta in 1929 where he was soon placed in an orphanage. Adopted by Tom & Bessie Houghton, he grew up in Edmonton and did his apprenticeship as an electrician there. He wed Elsa Anderson in 1949 and after the birth of their first two children (Dean & Carla), they moved to BC and lived in numerous places throughout the province before settling in Castlegar in 1961. By that time Doug and Keith had joined the family. Here was home where Fred and Elsa based the rest of their lives. In 1971 Fred took a post in Irian Jaya (Western New Guinea) and was joined by Elsa in 1972. Once they started travelling, they never stopped until life was ended.
Fred never let his lack of advanced education stop him. He did so many courses and studies that his resume was too long for most applications. He and Elsa shared a love of reading. Family was very important to them and was the reason for many trips and adventures locally and around the world.
His final home was at Grandview Heights where he enjoyed true community both in purpose and fellowship. So many of “the gang” supported Fred in many ways. We thank you.
Many thanks go to the Staff at Talarico Place, the Interior Health staff who took care of Fred in his home, and Dr. Makwadi. We cannot thank them enough for the wonderful, kind and considerate care they provided once Fred was no longer able to care for himself.
A Celebration of Fred’s Life will take place at Castlegar United Church, 809 Merry Creek Rd, Castlegar, BC, July 28 at 11:00am.
A reception for the breaking of bread and sharing of stories will follow in the Church hall.
Interment of both Fred and Elsa’s cremains will take place at the Castlegar Cemetery that same day.
In Memoriam donations may be made to
the Red Cross, Prostate Cancer Canada, or a charity of your choice.