Robert C Houghton

Robert C. Houghton (Pappy), our beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather died April 22, 2019 at Barre Gardens at the age of 92 with family by his side.  Robert was born to Doris Phelps and Raymond Houghton on October 10, 1926 and lived in Marshfield throughout his long life.  Robert attended school there, leaving his senior year to enter the U.S. Navy, where he served as a radio operator aboard the U.S.S. Jack Wilke DE-800 during WWII.

Robert married Merle Hayward in Marshfield on December 22, 1945 while on leave from the Navy.  He soon returned to duty and served until April, 1946.

Robert came back to Vermont happy to be home and ready to work.  He was a Rural Mail Carrier in the Marshfield/Calais/Woodbury area for 36 years, working out of the Marshfield Post Office.  He loved being outside, having a large garden, mowing his lawn, cutting logs, and selling firewood.  Rob had a propane gas delivery business for a few years and enjoyed trucking sawdust and bags of grain for farmers.  He also built a home on higher ground and further away from Rt. 2 even though he’d never been a builder.  Our father was a dedicated worker and his children fondly remember the many times he fell asleep at the supper table, exhausted.

Robert is survived by his sons: Robert (Bob) Houghton and wife Mary Jane of Daniel Island, SC; Robin Houghton and wife Tara of Dahlonega, GA; Roderick Houghton and wife Joan of Barre, VT; and daughter Pamela Hudson and husband Ralph of Gilmanton Ironworks, NH; his brother Raymond Houghton of Concord, VT; his sister Freda Croteau of Barre, VT; eight grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

Robert was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Merle Houghton; his brothers Richard Houghton and Randall Houghton; and his sister Frances Houghton.

Robert was blessed with the companionship of a dear friend, Lorraine Pendleton, during much of his last years of life.

A memorial service for Robert will be held on July 13th at 11am at Eaton Cemetery off Rt. 2 between Marshfield and Plainfield, followed by a light lunch and time for fellowship, location to be announced at the service.  

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