Harold Eugene Houpt

Harold is survived by his wife, Anna, of 75 years; and his three children Loretta, Leonard, and Robin; and grandchildren Yvonne and Linda. Being one of six children, he is survived by his sisters Freda and Louise; and preceded in death by his sister Dorothy; and brothers Merle and Roger.

Harold was born on January 9, 1918 in Washington County, Maryland, to the late Harvey and Esta (McCauley) Houpt. He married Anna Mae Plotner in 1939 in Washington County, Maryland, and the couple had three children together. Being a wanderlust, Harold moved his family back and forth from Maryland to Washington State several times over the years.

Harold was a highly skilled machinist, working on important projects like building war machinery to support WWII troops and providing parts for the Apollo spacecraft door. He worked for Pangborn and Lamb-Grays Harbor among other companies. He was very creative, precise, and could fabricate almost anything.

His was passionate about the outdoors. Harold loved to fish, hunt, crab, and dig clams. One of his favorite sayings was “When the tide is out, the table is set.” He made two trips to Canada to hunt moose. Harold always had a prolific garden and fruit trees. The pantry and fruit cellar were consistently stocked with the bounty he provided. He took great pride in providing for family and friends.

He loved to travel across the United States and explore this country. His spirit of adventure included earning his pilot’s license and buying a Cessna 172 airplane, which he flew coast to coast several times. He and his wife Anna would head south to Arizona for the winter where they would metal detect for gold.

Harold had a mischievous sense of humor. He would get a glint in his eye and you would know something was up. His family and friends will always remember him as a loving and funny person. Harold loved the Lord, whom he has now joined.

A funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2015 at 10 am at Mills & Mills Funeral Home, 5725 Littlerock Road SW, Tumwater, Washington. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Harold's life.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been set up in his name and donations may be sent to Coastal Conservation Association Pacific Northwest, 1006 West 11th Street, Vancouver, WA 98660. CCA is a nonprofit marine conservation group working to conserve and rebuild our fish populations and advocate for the recreational angler.