Herbert Housel was a family man from day one, and his clan included friends who became as important to him and his lovely wife, Vonnie, as any family member could. He was born on the family farm on May 12, 1935, the second of four children to Tyyna and Mirl Housel. He was preceded in death by his sister, Marcille Dylong, in 1980, and is survived by Dolores Baker of Conneaut, OH , and Norman Housel of Jefferson, OH. When asked what sports he played in high school, he replied that his activity was milking cows and running the farm with his mom. He didn’t have much time for sports once he met Vonnie anyway and they married the year after high school graduation.They married, started a family, and a successful business.

 Herb was active in the community and church, volunteering his time and expertise to many projects. He was often found building ramps and workingon projects at the JUMC. He was also active in the Jefferson Rotary Club, building the restrooms at the playground where the elementary school used to be, as well as contributing to many other community and church projects too numerous to mention.

 However, Herb got the most pleasure from spending time with family and close friends: travelling extensively with Vonnie and their children, spending winters in Naples, FL with family, and enjoying a glass (or three)of wine with family and friends. Favorite memories shared by those close to Herb often had him laughing so hard he couldn’t speak to tell a funny story. He was well-loved, loved well, was greatly respected, will be deeply missed, and fondly remembered.

 They raised four children who married well, in the model of their parents: Linda Reid (Bill) of Milwaukee, WI and their two children, Rachel Germain (Matt) with son, Oliver, and James Reid; Jacquie Housel (Howard Sizek) of Dayton, OH and their three children, Julia Housel Sizek of Berkeley, CA, Philip Housel Sizek of Madison, WI, and Herbert Housel Sizek finishing at the College of Wooster this spring; Greg Housel (Kathy) of Jefferson, and their five children, Tom Housel of Portland, OR, Nicholas Housel (Megan) and their son, Tayden, of Colorado Springs, CO, Michael Housel of Portland, OR, Samuel and Kiden Housel of Jefferson, OH; and, Susan Housel (Ray Chesher) of Naples, FL, and Jacqueline Chesher and James Chesher of Mississauga, Ontario. He had many nieces and nephews, and the family would like to remember Dale Dylong, of Oxford, GA and Charlie Divine of Myrtle Beach, SC.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10:00 A. M. at the Jefferson United Methodist Church, 125 E. Jefferson St., Jefferson, with the Rev. Daniel Bilkert officiating.  Burial will be in Oakdale Cemetery. In lieu of the flowers, please make donations to the Jefferson United Methodist Church for the building fund.  (Above address)

Calling hours will be held Friday from 4-7 P. M. at the Jefferson Home of Fleming & Billman Funeral Directors and Crematory, 49 W. Jefferson St., Jefferson.  The Fleming & Billman Funeral Homes and staff are honored to serve the Herbert Housel family.  Visit fleming-billman.com to view obituary, express condolences or light a candle.

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