Dorothy Houk

Dorothy Houk, lovingly known as "Grandma Dot," passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on September 9, 1950, in Cebu City to Cirilo Formentera and Susana Bansig. She married Lloyd D. Houk on August 18th, 1972 and had two sons, Lloyd "Dennis" Jr. (Megan) and Michael Harold (Brandi).

For over thirty years, Dorothy worked tirelessly at the local canneries—a job she took pride in, not just for the work itself but for the sense of community and purpose it gave her. Her coworkers often became like extended family, drawn in by her laughter and her reliability. One of the proudest moments of Dorothy’s life was becoming a United States citizen. She took great pride in this achievement and embraced her new home with deep gratitude and a strong sense of belonging. Dorothy also spoke five languages fluently—Filipino, English, Spanish, and two local dialects from her homeland. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life was one of the many gifts she shared with the world.

Dorothy’s heart, however, always belonged to her two sons, Lloyd (Dennis) Jr. and Michael Harold. She was their biggest fan—rarely missing a game, always cheering loudest from the sidelines, and never hesitating to gloat about them to anyone who would listen. Her love for them was fierce, unwavering, and deeply proud. She was also extremely in love with all her grandkids (Bailey, Barret, Josephine and Talmai, Taylor, Kendall, Sophia, Emerson and Penelope) great grandkids (Harlen, Burke, Murphy, Fox and the soon addition of a new baby boy).

A gifted gardener, Dorothy had a magical way with plants. Her backyard was a small oasis filled with the vibrant colors of her prized roses, each one lovingly tended to and shared with neighbors and friends. If you ever received a cutting from Dorothy’s Garden, you knew you were someone special to her. But more than anything, it was Dorothy’s kindness that defined her. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and endless generosity touched countless lives. Dorothy leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, family, and simple, meaningful moments. Her memory will live on not just in the stories we tell, but in the gardens we grow, the kindness we offer, and the love we pass on to others—just as she taught us.

A funeral Mass will be held in her honor on Friday May 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Catholic Church in Raymond, Washington. Following the service, we will proceed to the graveside at Menlo Cemetery for a brief interment. Afterward, all are welcome to return to the church to celebrate Dorothy’s life with food, shared memories, and the fellowship she so deeply cherished. She will be deeply missed by her family, her friends, and all who had the joy of knowing her.