Michael Lawrence Hougen

August 30, 1947- October 6, 2024

Mike Hougen, age 77, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2024, in Murietta, CA.

Born August 30, 1947, in Wenatchee, WA to Harvey L. and Carrie Elizabeth (Bellamy) Hougen, he attended Wenatchee schools and graduated from Wenatchee High School in1965. He was a dedicated clarinet player in the WHS marching band, and music continued to be an important influence throughout his life.

He continued his education at the University of Washington and graduated in 1970 from the School of Pharmacy. He worked briefly at the Wenatchee Valley Clinic Pharmacy until relocating to the Elsinore Pharmacy in Lake Elsinore, CA, and proudly built his first house in Canyon Lake.

He met Caroline Knowles while working together at Elsinore Pharmacy, and they married on May 8, 1982. Mike was lovingly devoted to the care and raising of their two daughters Amy and Lori, and then later to his three granddaughters.

His hobbies included traveling and collecting antiques, and he was especially fond of vintage cameras. Traveling the globe enriched Mike’s life, alongside visiting his hometown roots of Wenatchee and favorite childhood place, Lake Chelan, WA. Among his most memorable trips was his adventure to Africa where he was able to “walk with the lions.”

Mike was known and loved for his loyalty, kindness, compassion, and generosity to family and friends.

Mike is survived by his daughters Amy (Tomi) Hougen of San Francisco, CA, Lori Hougen Post & husband Christopher of Winchester, CA, and his three granddaughters, Reneé, Charolette, and Amanda. He is also survived by his sister Connie Birks and husband Jerry, close and dear friend Caroline Hougen, and brother-in-law Jim Knowles.

Donations honoring Mike Hougen can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation. (Parkinson.org)