Houlie was born to Earl and Margaret Houlihan in Peoria, Illinois on September 9th, 1937. He spent his childhood in Peoria, where he participated in football and eventually joined the Army Reserve while beginning a career in heavy equipment. In 1966, he wed Jacqueline Georgia Magarity and together they celebrated over 47 years of marriage. In addition to being a devoted husband and loving father of four children, Houlie was a proud and well-respected member of Operating Engineers Local 649 for many years. Despite being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in the early 1980’s, Houlie continued to have a positive attitude and an infectious sense of humor. Notorious for his classic jokes and mannerisms, Houlie was always able to get a laugh out of those around him. He quickly befriended everyone with whom he came into contact and always enjoyed the company of his friends and family whether it was at his regular pool parties, Agatuccis, Pizza Inn, Amvets gatherings, the Elks Club, or Izaak Walton’s annual events.
Houlie was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Margaret Houlihan. He is survived by his wife, Jackie; brother, Jim (Ruth) Houlihan; four children and step-children: Jay (Beth) Houlihan; Pat (Velvet) Magarity; Tom (Cindi) Magarity; Lauri (Joe) House; four nieces and nephews; nine grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Words cannot describe the impact that Houli had on so many lives, and he will be greatly missed by many. His family would also like to thank the generous and kind nurses and staff at Toulon Rehabilitation and Health Care Center for giving Houlie a welcoming home.
A celebration of life will be held at 3 pm Friday, February 21st, 2014 at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria, IL. Visitation will be from 1-3 pm at the funeral home on Friday. Cremation rites will be accorded. Memorials can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Akron-Princeville Ambulance, or Stark County Ambulance. Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.Davison-Fulton.com
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