Emma “Lu” Houle, died September 11, 2018 with her sons by her side in Phoenix, AZ. She was born in 1936, in Linden, MI, to Charles and Theresa Donaven. Her parents were small business owners with a farm and butcher shop. After graduating college from the University of Detroit, Lu spent her life serving others. As a Papal Volunteer in Peru, she met Harry Houle, whom she later married. After spending time, in Peru and Nazareth, Lu and Harry settled in Phoenix. Lu worked at St. Joseph’s hospital for over 20 years before retiring and spending time volunteering at St. Vincent DePaul and performing various charitable work and care giving for friends and family. Lu is survived by her sons and daughters-in-laws; Matthew and Jessica Houle, Andrew and Gretchen Houle, grandchildren; Maggie, Tommy, Matthew, Luke, Elle, John and Henry, sister-in-law; Mary Koch, niece’s; Cindy and Kelly, nephew; Billy and family Erin, Tyler and Carter. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Houle. A Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. with a Scripture Service at 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, September 13, 2018 at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road in Phoenix. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 14, 2018 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1954 N. 24th Street, Phoenix. Burial will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
M.A.
To the family and friends of Emma Lu:
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Please accept my sincere condolences. May the peace of God guard your hearts and thoughts as you get through this difficult time.
Kay Monroe
Lu was so much fun to be around and travel with! Enjoyed so many good times with her wit and wisdom! She was a caring and selfless person, always taking care of others. Never a negative word or complaint! Her faith in God was unwavering . She will be so missed! Eternal rest grant upon her Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.
Jennifer Thomas , Michigan Cousin
I only met Emma Lu, I think twice. The last time I met her, she had me laughing uncontrollably over goofy stuff. I had the pleasure of spending the weekend with her at my Aunt Bev’s home in Mio, MI, several years ago. This was one of the best weekends I had up there. I will always keep this memory close to my heart. My sincere condolences to her family and friends and keeping all of you in my thoughts.
Marcy Donnelly
Des and I met Lu and Harry in the summer of 1969. We were new arrivals to Phoenix. We became close friends, actually more like family. My mother,Sandy, and sister, Mary, were also close friends. Through the years we had many happy times as well as the occasional sad ones.
Harry’s humour was infectious and Lu would just smile at the jokes having heard them often.
I could tell when Lu was “off colour”. But she did not hang on to the anger.
When we moved to Ireland, Lu wrote often and never forgot my birthday.
Lu was kind especially to the sick and needy.
When we had the chance to visit home, Lu was on the top of our list.
When Harry passed away she never really got over the loneliness.
Des and I will never forget Lu and Harry and we hope to meet them again in eternity.
We love you Lu and will always miss you, Marcy and Des
Gay Wray
To the Houle Family,
I was privileged to know Mrs. Houle at St. Joseph’s Hospital, especially when my brother, Peter Firestone, died suddenly at 40 years old in 1981. Mrs. Houle was wonderful and comforting to all my family. I was happy to know Harry Houle at Phoenix country Day School for many years. I was always impressed with his intellect and library knowledge. Love and prayers to all the Houle family-
Gay Wray