Barbara Houk

Barbara Houk, 80, peacefully entered the loving embrace of Christ on October 29, 2024. Born October 13, 1944, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Barbara cherished her early years in the “big city,” filled with memories of bustling streets, boardwalks, and close-knit neighborhoods. She shared this early vibrant life with her two brothers, creating memories that remained with her throughout her life. 

Barbara later moved to Norton, Ohio, where she met Robert Houk, the love of her life. They went on to have two children, Bernadette and Jonathan. They shared 49 beautiful years of marriage.

As a mother, Barbara was profoundly loving and attentive. She valued family dinners, cherished long embraces, encouraged restful moments, and taught her children many important lessons to carry them in life, including the importance of hard work, forgiveness, and loving thy neighbor.

Barbara dedicated over 20 years as an elementary teacher at St. Francis de Sales and St. Augustine Schools, where she delighted in watching her students grow, especially in their faith and love of Christ.

Barbara was preceded by her parents, Marion and Henry Kawalek, and her husband, Robert Houk. She is survived by her brothers, Hank (Karen) and Richard (Marianne) Kawalek; her children, Bernadette and Jonathan (Megan); and her beloved grandsons, Maddox Trillow, 9, and Lincoln Houk, 1.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and nurses at Vitalia in Montrose and Suncrest Hospice. A special thank you to Makayla Wiggins and Brenda Summers, who provided compassionate care during Barbara’s journey with Parkinson’s Disease.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Augustine Church in Barberton, Ohio, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Cleveland, or the Haven of Rest in Akron, Ohio. 

Mass of the Christian Burial 10am SATURDAY, November 16 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 204 6th St. NW, Barberton, OH 44203. Entombment to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park. 

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd, Akron OH 44333.