Burlyn E. "Rib Ribby" Houck

Burlyn E. “Rib” “Ribby” Houck, 81, of Boyertown, passed away Thursday, April 10th, 2014 in Reading Hospital & Medical Center. He was the husband of Sara R. (Bieber) Houck with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. Born in Boyertown, he was a son of the late Robert and Helen (Gehris) Houck. Rib was a graduate of Boyertown High School in 1950 and a member of Good Shepherd U.C.C.-Boyertown. He was a United States Army Veteran serving during the Korean War. Rib worked in maintenance for the former Tungsol in Boyertown and then Special T Design until retiring. He was a wonderful husband and great provider. “Ribby” had quite a bit of experience playing baseball, he was the colorful 1st base coach and pitching coach for the Boyertown American Legion Baseball team from 1970-85. He was one of the contributing factors in the successful accomplishments of winning the 198 2 World Series and many state and regional titles. “Ribby” was inducted into the PA American Legion State Hall of Fame, and also helped Bob Kish coach a mini camp. He always loved every minute of it. He played at Boyertown High School, Boyertown Legion and 15 years with the Gabelsville Owls. He had the distinction of playing two years on the same service team (Army) with Billy Martin the former New York Yankees manager. “Ribs” said being part of the team wasn’t just about pitching, hitting or catching, it was about maturing and becoming an adult. The players always said “Ribs” made it feel like fun. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on from 5:00-7:00 P.M. in the Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. Mt. Penn. Interment private in Union Cemetery, Boyertown. In Lieu of Flowers, Contributions may be made to Good Shepherd U.C.C. Memorial Fund 35 W. Philadelphia Ave. Boyertown, PA 19512or the Animal Rescue League P.O. Box 69 Mohnton, PA 19540. For online condolen ces, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com