Harry Van Houten obituary

Harry Melvin Van Houten, 80, passed away from complications in the Lake City Care Center on January 31, 2026.
Harry was born June 27, 1945 to Ella May Van Houten and an unknown father in Millville, Minnesota and was surrounded by a large family of 17 half brothers and sisters. Harry enjoyed farm life and the outdoors by playing outside and at times swimming in the creek. He attended high school in Millville, but eventually went back to get his GED. He held many jobs but kept his position as a piston inspector and general laborer at Federal-Mogul in Lake City, Minnesota for about 18 years.
Harry married Patricia Mountin on January 2, 1982 and they had three boys: Joshua, Jacob, and Nathan. Harry delivered Joshua himself in their home when he was born. Harry and Patricia remained married for 19 years before divorcing.
During his life, Harry stayed mostly in Minnesota and eventually moved to Lake City where he lived the rest of his life. He developed dementia and was moved into the care center in Lake City for the remaining eight years of his life.
Harry had many hobbies that he enjoyed, including traveling with his sons and going on adventures, watching westerns, listening to country music, baking, and driving the countryside. He was a very caring, honest, and thoughtful person, making the most of his time with his sons and always treating people with respect. Harry liked to joke around and would always look forward to his annual vacations.
Harry is survived by his three sons, Joshua Van Houten, Jacob Van Houten, and Nathan (Laura) Van Houten of Lake City; and his half brothers and sisters Kathy Kruger, Judy Kruger, Janet (Steve) Wenner, David (Margo) Kruger, Nancy Peterson, Joseph (Shannon) Kruger, Mark Kruger, Rande Kruger, and Brenda (David) Franck of Rochester, Minnesota, Karen (Merlin) Madoll of Eagle Bend, Minnesota, Charles (Vicky) Kruger of Kasson, Minnesota, and Gary (Marcy) Kruger of Stewartville, Minnesota. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews, a great grand niece and nephew, and a grandson, Gabriel Van Houten. He was preceded in death by brothers Robert, Jerry, and Dennis Kruger and one sister Geraldine Fitzpatrick.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on February 5, 2026 at Christ Church, Old Frontenac, Minnesota. It will be officiated by Rev. Paul Ehling. Family and friends are welcome for visitation and memorial one hour prior and also invited to stay after for a lunch and reception.