George W. Houck
Aug. 24, 1895; Oregonian, p 3
"Death of George W. Houck"
Corvallis, Or., Aug. 23
 
   George W. Houck, an Oregon pioneer of 1856, died yesterday at his home, four miles west of Monroe, in this county. He was born January 22, 1830, in Mahayunk Pa., and spent his boyhood days in Seneca, O. His parents were native of Germany, and came to America in 1828. He was fifth of a family of seven children, and when a youth learned the shoemaker's trade. In 1852 he came to California via Panama, and remained there until 1856. During this time he was engaged in mining, and did fairly well. When first in Oregon, he spent some time in the mines, but later engaged in the mercantile business, both in Corvallis and Monroe, and so continued until 1884, when he was burned out. In 1884 he was elected county commissioner, serving one term. He was in office at the time of the building of the present county courthouse, and his progressive spirit had much to do in securing the building of that edifice.
 
   Mr. Houck was married July 22, 1858, to Deliah Young who had crossed the plains in 1847,and who survives him. Six children have been born to them, only three of whom are living: Jesse J., George A., and Linn A. A large tract of land lying in Benton and Lane counties is evidence of the business ability of the man who came West penniless. With his son he has for several years been engaged in stock raising and wool growing, and was regarded as one of Benton county's well-to-do farmers. In politics he was a democrat and in religion a firm believer in the Catholic faith.
 
   His funeral will occur tomorrow from the Catholic church in this city.