Foley, Minnesota
James Houdek, age 86, of Foley, passed away peacefully March 30, 2024, at his daughter’s home with his family by his side. Mass of Christian Burial was April 5 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Gilman. The Rev. Matthew Langager officiated and burial with military honors took place in the parish cemetery. There was a visitation April 4 at the Foley Funeral Home, which continued at the church Friday. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.
James ‘Jim’ Lawrence Houdek Jr., was born Nov. 27, 1937, in Olivia, to James and Bessie (Kubesh) Houdek. He served his country in the Army National Guard. He married Paulette ‘Pauli’ Toren June 29, 1963, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Olivia. The couple raised three children — Brian, Brad and Beth. He enjoyed spending time with his family. Anyone who knew Jim knew he loved to raise beef cattle, most notably Black Angus.
He was very motivated, hardworking and enjoyed the simple things in life. Most importantly, he was strong, determined and never gave up. He was an industrious worker and extremely talented at metal fabricating and enjoyed using his lathe. Whatever he built was better, stronger and would serve his purpose. Jim was a devoted Catholic and a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church where he was an usher for many years. He was a member of the Foley American Legion for 45 years and served on the executive board as well as the color guard, having participated in many military funerals. Jim was a friend to many and always made it a point to visit the sick. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Foley American Legion, Post 298. A special thank you to the CentraCare Hospice nurse, Nicole for her guidance and to Care Medical Supply for their many years of great service.
He is survived by his children Brian (Tammy), Brad and Beth (Terry) Thorsten, all of Foley. He is also survived by his grandchildren Eric (Sarah) Thorsten, Meghan (Dustin) Houdek-Hale and Kayla (Justin) Voigt; and great-grandchildren Bentley, Carson, Oaklynn and Addilynn; his sister Mildred Roggebuck; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Pauli in 2017, brother Jerome Houdek and sister Blanche Holman.
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