Laddie Vincent Houck

Laddie Vincent Houck, age 68, passed away suddenly on January 28, 2026, in Murray, Utah. His passing was unexpected, and the space he leaves behind is felt deeply by all who loved him.

Laddie was born on March 20, 1957, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Ira Edward Houck and June Peterson. On December 16, 1980, he married the love of his life, Debbie Lee Neuman. Together they shared 45 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, faith, service, and adventure. Even after her sudden passing, Debbie remained the great love of his life.

Of all Laddie’s accomplishments, his family was his greatest pride. He was a devoted father to three children and a deeply loved grandfather—known as “Paha”—to ten grandchildren, with one more on the way. He loved visiting his children and grandchildren, never tiring of the time spent together, the stories shared, or the memories made. His presence was steady, comforting, and full of quiet love.

Laddie lived a life of service and dedication. He retired from the Sheriff’s Office, honorably served and retired from the United States Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, and was a skilled and successful gunsmith, respected for both his craftsmanship and integrity. Yet he never defined himself by titles—he defined himself by showing up for the people he loved.

He had a deep love for travel and the outdoors, especially visiting national parks and monuments. Hiking the Grand Canyon was one of his proud accomplishments. He cherished camping, hiking, and family trips, finding joy in simple moments spent together. He also loved train travel and cruising, and his passion for model train layouts became something he lovingly shared with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed reading, working on his cars, and staying busy with projects that kept his hands and mind engaged.

Laddie is survived by his daughter Stephanie L. Laser (Paul); his son Kevin M. Houck (Kaylee); ten grandchildren, with one on the way; and one brother.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Debbie Lee Houck; his parents, Ira Edward Houck and June Peterson; and his daughter, Heather Lynn Best, whom he now rejoins.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, February 5, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Memorial Redwood Mortuary, 6500 Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah 84123.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 6, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7115 S. 3200 W., West Jordan, Utah 84084. A visitation will take place from 10:00–10:45 a.m., followed by the funeral service from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. The service will be streamed at the following link: https://westlandstake.org/stream/9th

Graveside services will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Memorial Redwood Cemetery.

Laddie will be remembered for his steady presence, kind heart, quiet strength, and the unwavering love he gave his family. His legacy lives on in the stories told, the places traveled, the trains that still run, and the generations who will forever know his love.