- Date Of Birth: October 25, 1944
- Date Of Death: July 25, 2019
- State: Idaho
Michael “Mike” Dale Van Houten passed away on July 25, 2019 in his home with his wife, daughter, cousin and beloved dog Winston by his side.
Mike was born October 25, 1944 in Caldwell, Idaho to Maurice R Van Houten & Beulah Faye (Cox) Van Houten. He is the older brother to Vernon R Van Houten and was a Life Member of Steilacoom Lodge No. 2 in Tacoma, Washington. He graduated High School from Kennewick High School in 1963.
Following graduation, Mike entered into U.S. Air Force and later met the love of his life, Janice “Jan” Anita Farrell in 1969. They were married July 5, 1969 and celebrated their 50th anniversary earlier this month surrounded by friends and family.
After retiring from the military in 1985, Mike settled in Colorado Springs, Colorado with his wife Jan and returned to the Boise area in 1994. Mike became and remained an active member of the Boise Police Department Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association and served as Vice President of 3 Rivers Crime Stoppers in Weiser, Idaho. He was also active as a Former Board Member of Crime Stoppers USA and Crime Stoppers International which he served on with Jan. He was also an active member of the Tri-County Anti-Trafficking Taskforce in Ontario, Oregon.
Mike is survived by his wife Jan (Farrell), daughter Shawna Reid and son-in-law Jeffrey, grandson Austin Reid, granddaughter Kylee Reid, brother Vern and sister-in-law Connie, beloved dog Winston, cousins, and numerous nieces, nephews around the country. He was preceded in death by his parents and two daughters; Brandi Sue & Sheri Kae.
Known for his cowboy hats, boots, and always having a camera close by – Mike was always quick with a joke. Mike loved taking drives with his wife and dog Winston around the state, especially to Shoshone Falls. Kind-hearted, stubborn, and always looking for a new adventure – Mike inspired strength and goodness in everyone he met. Upon his diagnosis with cancer, Mike was insistent that people shouldn’t feel sorry for him but instead for those young people and children who never had the opportunity to live.
Mike loved his life, his family, and was true to everything he believed until the day he was finally called Home.
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