Richard S. Houck, 86, of Smethport, PA passed away Friday (October 13, 2023) at UPMC-Hamot, Erie.

He was born February 24, 1937 in Olean, the son of George and Clare (Arto) Houck. On August 19, 1961, in St. Elizabeth Church, Smethport, he married Sylvia J. Bryson, who survives.

Rich had worked in several areas of construction over the years. He was an electrician working for the Local #1319 Union.  He had also worked for Case Cutlery of Bradford.

He was a member of the #388 F&AM of Smethport, was a social member of the American Legion; Bucktail Post #138 and VFW Post #2497, both of Smethport.

Rich loved hunting, fly and ice fishing.  Many times it was Sylvia and Rich trolling on the waters of the Kinzua searching for the elusive walleye.  Hunting was a spiritual expression for Rich.  He would spend three to four days at his “spot”.  He’d chop wood for his cooking and heating needs, and of course, be scoping out the area for his future conquests.  In later years, Rich made delicious deer jerky which he shared with family and friends.

Rich also had a passion for gardening. Anyone who passed his home would notice the manicured lawn, power-washed house and award-winning hibiscus.  He enjoyed visiting the Seneca Allegany Resort Casino to play the slots and card tables.

In addition to his wife, Sylvia, he is survived by:

One brother: David Houck of Naples, FL

14 nieces and nephews

In addition to his parents, Rich was preceded in death by two brothers, Gale and Joseph Houck, along with three sisters, Yvonne Russell, Mary Stotler and Carolyn Wolfe

Services will be held privately with the family. Burial will be in St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Smethport.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.