Joseph Thomas Houk M.D.
June 9, 1925 - March 24, 2009
Obituary
Preceded in death by his first wife, Peggy, parents Joseph C. and Margaret T. Houk, sisiters Mary Louise, Rose and brother Lawernce.
Survived by his wife, Ann and children, Kathleen Guiles Tony, Joseph Natalie, David Mary, Robert MAry Kaye, Thomas Sally, Michael Patricia, Christina Maitland Matt, and Brian Peterman Debbie. Also survived by nieces Patricia Sclegal, Victoria Vetang, 16 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren.
In 1943, at the age of 17, Joe went into the Navy V-12 program. He received his undergraduate degree at Duke University and attended Medical School at Indiana University, graduating in 1949.
He and his wife Peggy moved west and opened his Radiology Practice in 1959. He was a founding member of Highline Hospital and an active member of Saint Francis of Assisi Parish for over fifty years.
He loved to write, play bridge, ski, and in his later years tried to home his golf skills. After a round we would ask him what he shot and he would say he ‘shot himself in the foot’.
Dad was a humble man who always put others before himself. He loved his family and friends unconditionally and treated others as he wanted to be treated. A special thanks to his wife Ann who loved and cared for him wonderfully the past seven years and to his best friend for over 50 years, Al Seitz. We love you Al.
Dad, we love you, we will miss you, and we will always hold you close to our hearts. Thanks for being such a wonderful dad, husband, friend and mentor. You touched many lives.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mercy Outreach Surgical Team at 4077 5th Ave. MER99 San Diego, Cal. 92103-2105
Joe started a Radiology Service in Burien before we even had a hospital. He promised he would call the results personally if we wished. He gave Radiologic service far beyond any offered anywhere else. He continued that philosophy to the end and imbued his later partners in the same service. When we got Riverton and Burien Hospital he was the choice of the Medical Community over the selections of the Hospital Administrators to head up the in-hospital radiology.. He was a great physician. He was my life long friend. And a darn good bridge player.
We have such wonderful memories of the good times we shared with Uncle Joe and his warm, witty and gracious manner. Tim and I extend our heartfelt condolences to our cousins and the rest of the family.
To the Family, May each of you find comfort in knowing that God is “near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” Psalm 34;18 He has promised to soon “swallow up death forever…and wipe the tears from all faces.” Isaiah 25;8 Take care,
Joe was a very special man. He always made me feel part of the family. He will hold a place in my heart always. My condolences to friends and family.