HOUCK, Philip A., Of Boston and Eastham, MA, formerly of Fairfield, CT, died on October 1, 2025 after a long illness at the age of 89.

Born in Bronxville, NY to F. Paul and Dorothy (Austin) Houck, he was raised in Westfield, NJ.  A graduate of The Frederick Gunn School and Harvard College, Philip spent his career in the life insurance business.  After retiring, he attended the North Bennet Street School in Boston, honing his craft as a life-long skilled amateur cabinetmaker.  He continued to devote his time to many woodworking projects until dementia robbed him of those skills.  Philip was a loyal friend and could be counted on to remember your birthday, serenading friends and family on the trumpet or in song.

He is survived by Holiday (Smith) Houck, his wife of 65 years, his daughter Alexandra Houck (Kevin Amaratunga) of Belmont, MA, his son Paul Houck (Kate) of Eastham, MA, grandchildren Rebecca Dixon, Christopher Houck and  Elizabeth and Sam Amaratunga, his sister Judith Lowen (Douglas) and his brother Oliver Houck (Lisa). He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and close friends, as well as his faithful dog Wolfgang.

A tree will be planted on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall in his memory.   Donations may be made to Friends of the Public Garden, 69 Beacon St, Boston 02108. Please include his name if you choose to contribute.

Burial will be private.