Clarence "Sonny" E. Houser

Clarence E. “Sonny” Houser, 85, North Manchester, Indiana, passed away on November 7, 2020 at Peabody Healthcare Center, North Manchester, Indiana. The son of Clarence W. and Juanita L. (Johnson) Houser, Sonny was born on November 14, 1934 in Huntington County, Indiana.

During his time at Chester High School, Sonny was an accomplished member of the basketball team.  His love for basketball never went away, as Sonny was a lifetime supporter of Manchester High School, Manchester College and Indiana University basketball programs. After graduating from Chester High School in 1954, Sonny enlisted in the United States Army and returned to North Manchester after being honorably discharged. On June 19, 1981 Sonny married a woman he absolutely adored, Barbara Thomas Kelly. The two were married for thirty-nine years.

Sonny made a living as an accomplished contractor in the North Manchester area for many years. He worked on many residences’ homes and businesses, most notably the Main View, Woodspoint, Dairy Queen, and turning a gas station into what is now Mr. Daves. During his time off, Sonny enjoyed playing racquetball, water skiing, watching old westerns and going out to eat with Barb and other couples. He especially loved when his grandson visited. Sonny had a great sense of humor and was a giving, caring person. Anytime someone asked Sonny for something, his reply was always, “No problem.” For many years Sonny and Barbara worshipped at Congregational Christian Church, North Manchester, where they both were members.

The loving memory of Sonny Houser will be forever cherished by his wife, Barbara Houser, North Manchester, Indiana; daughter, Gina (James “Jimm”) Finch, New Port Richey, Florida; sister, Juana S. (Stanley) House, South Bend, Indiana; and grandson, Lane Hyden. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents and three dogs that he loved dearly, Sandy, Cindy, and Annie.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Sonny Houser, memorial contributions may be made to the Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Ave., Wabash, Indiana 46992

Arrangements are entrusted to McKee Mortuary.