Larry Don Houdek, age 78, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 2, 2023 after a long battle with cancer which created other health issues. He was born July 1, 1945 to Stanley and Dorothy (McCord) Houdek in Ennis, Texas.  He graduated from Ennis High School in 1963.

He joined the Air Force in 1966 during the Vietnam war and was honorably discharged in 1972.  He was very proud to have served his country and follow in his father's footsteps.

Larry was united in marriage to Dollie on July 13, 1996.  Both already had children, so they united them together to form one family.  They enjoyed 27 years together fishing, camping, attending auto shows and air shows.  Gathering as often as they could with family for birthdays and holidays was a priority.  Attending their children's and then grandchildren's sporting events was a must. Traveling on vacations, as often as possible, was another enjoyment.

He retired from American National Life Insurance Co. in 2010 after more than 30 years of employment.  After retirement, he enjoyed yard work, detailing the cars and watching westerns on TV.

Larry was a wonderfully devoted husband and father.  Very kind, loving, caring and forgiving, just like our heavenly Father.  He was a loyal member of and loved attending Baylor Baptist Church in Ennis, TX. He enjoyed singing in the choir and serving as needed at the church. He was ordained as a deacon at Baylor Baptist Church on December 11, 2016.

Larry is survived by his wife, Dollie; his children Kristi and husband Jarrett Pendley; Wendy and husband John Slovak; Kevin and wife Candi Houdek.  Several grandchildren: Jordan Pendley, Allison Pendley, Jacob Slovak, Matthew Slovak, Destini Houdek and Kaden Houdek.  He is also survived by his sister, Betty and husband Larry Mullins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Stanley (1998); mother, Dorothy (1978); stepmother, Jeanette (2017); and grandson Tyler Slovak (2017).

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 8th, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the J.E. Keever Mortuary of Ennis.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 9th, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Baylor Baptist Church sanctuary with Pastor Chet Hensley officiating.

Submitted by family