Eulas "Pete" H. Houston, Jr

Eulas "Pete" H. Houston Jr., of Waterford, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, at the age of 81. Born in Pontiac, Michigan, on July 20, 1944, Pete was the son of the late Eulas Houston Sr. and the late Mary Houston (née New). A lifelong resident of the area, Pete graduated from Waterford Township High School in 1962 and quickly began building a career that would span more than four decades. While still in high school, Pete started working at A&P Meat Market. Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to his craft, he worked his way up to become a respected meat cutter. Over the years, he continued his career in the grocery industry, later working for Walmart, where he eventually moved into management before retiring. Those who worked alongside Pete knew him as a true professional and master of his trade. Friends, coworkers, and others in the industry often remarked that he was one of the best meat cutters around. Pete took great pride in providing for his family. Whether it was venison during hunting season or the finest cuts of beef, he always made sure to bring home the very best. He processed venison during hunting season he did it to help give a special Christmas to all his kids. One of the greatest blessings of Pete's life was meeting the love of his life, Janice Gustafson. Their story began through his daughter at the bowling alley now known as Century Bowl, and from that moment on, the rest was history. Together they built a beautiful blended family filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Janice lovingly referred to Pete as her angel, often saying that he rescued her and her children and gave them a life filled with security, love, and happiness. Pete was a strong and resilient man who endured many challenges throughout his life. Despite the hardships he faced, he rarely complained and instead carried himself with quiet determination and strength. He was dependable, protective, and always willing to help those he loved. Outside of work and family, Pete had a passion for American muscle cars. He especially enjoyed his 2018 Octane Red Dodge Challenger and over the years proudly owned several classic favorites, including a 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS and a 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. As the years passed, Pete developed a love for golf. He spent countless enjoyable days on the course, frequently playing at White Lake Oaks Golf Course and Pontiac Country Club, though he was always happy to tee off wherever the opportunity arose. He was also a lifelong music lover whose playlists ranged from the classics of the 1960s and 1970s to country music and timeless favorites that brought back cherished memories. Above all else, Pete loved his family. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, strength, and unconditional love. He will be remembered as a devoted life partner, father, grandfather, friend, and provider whose presence made life better for those around him. He leaves behind his partner and best friend of 43 years Janice Gustafson; his children: Richard, Brain, and Timothy Gustafson; grandchildren: Shane, Maddison, Myla (Fiancé Noah Jett), Kalea, TJ, Jordan, Cheyenne (Anthony), Alexis, Sara, Brandon, and Payton; great grandchildren: Jane and Savannah; preceded in death by both parents, his brother David, and his daughter Kelly (Michael) Isenperg. Family and friends will be received for visitation on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Coats Funeral Home in Waterford. Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, Pete's memory will continue to live on in the stories shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he leaves behind in the hearts of all who knew him.

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