Raymond "Ray" Franklin Houtz Jr., 69

Raymond "Ray" Franklin Houtz Jr., 69, beloved husband and father, passed away Saturday, Nov. 20, 2004, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. Ray was born Oct. 2, 1935, in Wiconisco, Pa., to Raymond Sr. and Saloma (Paul) Houtz.

Ray graduated from William Penn High School in Harrisburg, Pa., in 1953. He then enlisted in the United States Navy and served honorably during the Korean conflict. He was discharged in 1961.

He married Frances Cirini in Chula Vista, Calif., in 1958.

He worked as district sales manager for Interstate Brands for 30 years. He refired from them in 1992.

Ray was an elder at First Presbyterian Church as well as being a committee member on the finance and scholarship committees. He loved hunting and fishing, was an avid cribbage player and the number one fan of his beloved San Diego Chargers. He was also a master Hearts player.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Bill; and sister, Doris.

He is survived by his loving wife, Frances, of Kalispell; daughters, Lisa G. Spencer of Spokane, and Lynda G. Nelson of Columbia Falls; grandchildren, Alexandra K. Spencer and Raymond D. Spencer of Spokane, and Rachael B. Nelson, Serena L. Nelson and Ethan E. Nelson of Columbia Falls; great-granddaughter, Jessyka M. Ceravolo, of Spokane; and brother, Larry Houtz, of Pennsylvania.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 24, at the First Presbyterian Church.

The family suggests memorials be made to the Scholarship Fund at First Presbyterian Church.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.