HOUCK, Alexander M., 1826-1907

HOUCK, ROBERTSON

Posted By: Betty Hootman (email)
Date: 2/21/2012 at 08:47:56

Washington (IA) Journal
22 August 1907

Alex Houck Dead

Alex. Houck, an old settler, died last Thursday after a long and painful illness. He suffered all summer more or less and finally had to succumb. But he had reached the ripe old age of 85, which is fifteen years more than man's allotted span.

Alex Houck was one of our best known citizens. He lived west of town on the Sigourney road since 1855. He owned 550 acres of land there that is now worth $125 per acre. He was twice married. His first wife's children are James and Mrs. Dr. Robertson, who was with him in his last illness.

Charles is by the present wife.

Alex Houck had many good manly traits. He had his weaknesses as all men have, but he had as fine a sense of honor as any man we have known. He was noted for his integrity and for his honorable dealings. In days gone he dealt heavily in stock and never made a crooked deal. His word was as good as his bond and his note as good as wheat in the bin.

He had a keen sense of humor and a sly laugh was mighty funny. He could take a joke on himself as well as he enjoyed it on the other fellow. He was rather a keen observer and he had read considerably more than the average man reads.

He was a likable old citizen. His wife survives him. He was buried in Elm Grove Saturday by the Masons. The pallbearers were old time friends. They were Senator Young, Henry Parkinson, George Griffith, Amos Albertson, Marsh Wilkins and Capt. Kellogg.