Raymond Hickman Houck

Mr. Raymond Hickman Houck, 94, died Monday, September 26 at his home in Jefferson.

Born on February 17, 1917 in Ijamsville, MD and raised in Doubs, MD. He was the son of Murray E. and Nina Hickman Houck.

Raymond was a graduate of the Frederick High School, class of 1935. As a young man, he worked in Frederick for Hamilton's Market and the Coca-Cola Company. He was an avid Baseball fan and played for the Doubs team in the 1941 Tri-County League championship playoff series.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in the European Theatre during World War II.

While raising his family, in Takoma Park and College Park, MD, Raymond was employed by the Thompson Dairy Company and then the Continental Baking Company. He retired in 1980. He moved back to Frederick in 2004.

An avid gardener, Raymond enjoyed pleasing his family, neighbors and friends with his beautiful variety of flowers. He particularly enjoyed growing roses. At one time, caring for over 240 beautiful hybrid tea rose bushes of a variety of colors.

Holidays were always special occasions for Raymond and his family. He took great pride in constructing his Christmas Dickens Village under the family Christmas tree and enjoyed talking about the design and significance of each piece in his display.

Raymond is survived by his daughters Martha and Carol Houck of Jefferson and Mary Louise and husband Buddy Hughes of Frederick; his sister, Helen Biehl of Frederick; his brother, Francis Houck and wife Barbara of Keedysville; and several nieces and nephews.

Raymond was preceded in death by his loving wife, Virginia, who passed away, in November 2000, soon after celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. He was also pre-deceased by his sister, Dorothy Murray.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8pm on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at the Keeney & Basford Funeral Home, 106 E. Church Street, Frederick.

Funeral services will be held at 11am, on Thursday, September 29, 2011, at the funeral home. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11am. Rev. Paul A. Papp, pastor of the Doubs United Methodist Church, will officiate.

Interment will be in the Mount Olivet Cemetery, Frederick.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Doubs United Methodist Church, 5131 Doubs Road, Adamstown, MD 21710.

Online condolences may be shared at www.keeneybasford.com.