Harry "Butch" Melvin Van Houten, 80, passed away from complications in the Mayo Clinic – Lake City Care Center on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Harry was born June 27, 1945, to Ella May Van Houten and an unknown father in Millville, MN 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, MN for about 18 years.

Harry married Patricia Mountin on January 2, 1982, and they had three boys: Joshua, Jacob, and Nathan in which Harry delivered Joshua himself in a home when he was born. They remained married for 19 years before divorcing.

During his life, Harry stayed mostly in Minnesota and eventually moved to Lake City, MN where he lived the rest of his life. He developed dementia and was moved into the care center in Lake City for the remaining 8 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 of Hopkins, Jacob Van Houten of Red Wing, and Nathan (Laura) Van Houten of Lake City; and his half brothers and sisters, Kathy Kruger, Judy Kruger, Janet (Steve) Wenner, Martinez, GA, Linda Holland of Spring Valley, MN, David (Margo) Kruger, Nancy Peterson, Joseph (Shannon) Kruger, Mark Kruger, Rande Kruger, and Brenda (David) Franck of Rochester, MN Karen (Merline) Madoll of Eagle Bend, MN, Charles (Vicky) Kruger of Kasson, MN and Gary (Marcy) Kruger of Stewartville, MN. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews, a great-grand niece and nephew, and a grandson, Grabiel Van Houten. He was preceded in death by brothers, Robert, Jerry, and Dennis Kruger, and one sister Geraldine Fitzpatrick.

The family will host a memorial service on Thursday, February 5th, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Church in Old Frontenac, MN and officiated by Rev. Paul Ehling. Family and friends are welcome for visitation one hour prior to the memorial service at the church, with a lunch/reception following the service.

Schleicher Funeral Homes, Lake City Chapel assisted the family.