Charles Richard (Rich) Houdashelt, 77

Charles Richard (Rich) Houdashelt, 77, of Pomeroy passed away Thursday, May 4, 2017 at his home. He was born July 3, 1939. He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Charles W. and Anna, his brother Bill, a baby Mary Ann, a son-in-law Rob Harrison, many aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife Mary (Burnside) of almost 53 years, daughters Audra (Chris Workman) and Betsy (Harry Rice, Son-in-law) of Pomeroy.

Grandchildren, Wade, Lexi, Cody(Megan, wife), Abby and Katelyn. Great grandchildren, Weston, Zella, Kinley, and cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many friends.

Rich graduated from Pomeroy High school in 1957 and soon joined the United States Navy serving 3 years. In 1960, he worked at Western Electric in Columbus, Ohio.

In 1964 he wed longtime sweetheart Mary Burnside. Before the birth of their first daughter Audra, they moved home to Meigs Co. Rich bought his fist tractor trailer and soon had seven trucks and employees for the business. Soon before his second daughter Betsy was born, he went to work at AEP Mountaneer Power Plant where he retired after 25 years.

Rich attended the Carleton Church almost his entire life where he served as boardmember and Sunday school teacher. He belonged to the Gideons and served as President and Treasurer/Secretary. Rich also belonged to the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Reynoldsburg Lodge No. 0340 nearly 50 years.

Rich and his wife traveled extensively; the entire eastern US, visited the US Intrepid in N.Y. the ship he was aboard while enlisted in the Navy. Later, a cruise to Alaska, a cross country trip to California, and a trip to Europe. He enjoyed boating, was a great skier back in the day, and enjoyed sharing their camper on the river with friends and family for 20 years.
A wonderful friend and inspiration to all who knew him and the best husband, dad and grandpa you could ever want.

Calling hours will be 6-8pm Sunday, May 7, 2017 at Anderson McDaniel Pomeroy, Ohio. Funeral services will be 11am Monday, May 8, 2017 at the funeral home with graveside services to follow at Carleton Church Kingsbury Rd Pomeroy.

A registry is available at www.andersonmcdaniel.com