Obituary of Michael George Houghton

Michael George Houghton of Thompson, CT, known affectionately as Mike to his friends and family, embarked on his final adventure on April 19, 2025, at the age of 72, surrounded by his family. He reunited with his cherished wife, Gale A. Houghton, and his dearly missed parents, George and Marie (Lou) Houghton, in a place where every day is sunny and the birds always sing on key.

Born on November 22, 1952, Mike was the kind of guy who could light up a room with his quick wit and easy smile. He was honorably discharged from the U,S, Navy and went on to graduate from Johnson & Wales University, where he likely majored in charm and minored in witticisms, although the official transcript says something far less entertaining.

Family meant everything to Mike. He was the ringmaster of his own circus. He leaves behind his three children, Shawn Houghton (Sheri) of Putnam, Shannon Bates (Shawn) of Putnam, and Heather Dietz-Millette (Matthew) of Woodstock. His brothers, Tom Houghton of Webster and Jim Houghton (Brenda) of Woodstock. His grandchildren, Ashley (Kaitlyn), Alyssa, and her fiancé (Evan), Johnny, Haley, Logan, Trevor, Carly, and Kayla, who will surely miss his impromptu seek and find smiley faces, as well as his nieces, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Mike’s love for birding was only rivaled by his passion for basking in the lake’s glow and soaking up an unfair share of sunshine. He was a connoisseur of all sports, as long as it didn’t interfere with his sacred time feeding the squirrels, birds, and any four-legged friend that wandered into his yard looking for a free meal and a good laugh.

Generous to a fault, Mike was willing to help in any way he could. He was as courageous as he was loving. In the end, Mike Houghton was a tough bird, and those who knew him know exactly what that means.

So, let’s raise our binoculars to the sky, where he’s probably negotiating with the eagles to fly in formation, and smile knowing that Mike is up there, laughing, loving, and adding a splash of color to the clouds. Fly high, wonderful man, and keep the angels entertained until we meet again.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Michael to the CLL Global Research Foundation (Click Here) or your local Audubon Society.

Calling Hours will be held Thursday, May 1, 2025 from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street, Putnam, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Church of the Visitation, 218 Providence Pike, Putnam, CT. Burial will follow for Michael and Gale at St. Mary Cemetery, Putnam, CT. Share a memory at Smithandwalkerfh.com