Harley R. Houston, 89

Harley R. Houston, 89, "went to be with his Lord and Savior" on March 4, 2005.

Harley was born on April 20, 1915, in Midland, Texas, to Henry and Lulu Houston. He was the youngest of five children. Harley moved with his family to Kalispell, when he was three years old. He attended Flathead County High School where he played varsity basketball and was known as "Bumps," during his high school years. He graduated from Flathead County High School in 1932.

Harley married Faye Thompson in 1937. They had one daughter, Janet. They were divorced in 1942. Harley married Charlotte Parent in 1947, they raised two children, Ralina, and James. They were divorced in 1965. In 1967, Harley married Charlotte Pronovost. She added four daughters to Harley's life. Charlotte passed away in 1990.

Harley had been a resident of Kalispell for 86 years. In the 1940s, Harley and his brothers owned and operated the Meridian Dairy. In the 1950s, he became a Flathead County Commissioner and he served two terms. During his time as commissioner, he was very proud that they got LaSalle Road changed from a two lane to a four lane road which is now known as U.S. 2. He made several trips to Washington, D.C., was proud to have met Mike Mansfield and several other important political figures.

Harley was a contract owner of a rural newspaper route for the Daily Inter Lake for 23 years before retiring.

Harley enjoyed deer bunting, music, dancing, and later on in life, golf. He was a member of the Eagles Lodge for many years and the Rocky Mountain Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four siblings, Stanley, Mildred, Dorothy and Clint; as well as his wife, Charlotte.

He is survived by his children, Janet and her husband, Bud Tyree; Ralina Degele and her husband, Sheldon; son, Jim Houston; stepdaughters, Shelia, Dana, Donna and Charlene; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home, with the Rev. Dan Lydick officiating.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.