RITTMAN - Don G. Houglan passed away Sunday, April 23, 2017 at Renaissance in Richfield after a brief illness.

Don was born December 19, 1932 to Emma and Orla Houglan in Wadsworth.  He graduated from Rittman High School in 1950, and attended The Ohio State University, where he was involved in the forestry program, before joining the Army.  Following his military service, Don resumed his education at Kent State University, where he earned an accounting degree in 1957.

After graduation, Don travelled extensively as an auditor for the Glidden Company for five years, before returning to his hometown of Rittman to operate the B and W Oil Company with his brother-in-law, the late Robert Adams.  Don also served as Personnel Director and Vice President of Support Services at the former Wadsworth-Rittman Hospital, from which he retired in 1996.

Don was an active volunteer and community servant.  He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. He served the City of Rittman as an elected council member and planning commissioner, and his church as an elder. Don was elected to the Board of Directors of Chippewa Savings Bank and its successor in interest, the Wayne County National Bank, as well as the Board of Trustees of Wadsworth-Rittman Hospital, where he served as Chairman of the Board.  He also served as a trustee of the Wayne County Community Foundation and was a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Rittman. 

A member of the Izaak Walton League, Don committed countless hours to the reforestation of the land along Cedar Valley Road in Wayne County, and the feeding of the many species of birds that occupied the property, with his son, Todd, and his good friend, the late Glenn Berkey.  Don was a kind and generous friend, father and step-father who enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, his step-children, and countless friends, many of whom learned appreciation for the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of the earth’s resources from Don’s example.

Don will be sadly missed by his children, Todd (Britni) Houglan and Anna Kucharsky; his grandchildren, Paityn Houglan, Carter Houglan, Maiya Houglan, Camden Houglan, and Chelsea Kucharsky; his step-children, Peggy (Mike) Schmitz, Jonathan (Jane) Lance, Laurie (Bruce) Watson, and James (Beth) Lance; and numerous nieces and nephews who were very special to him.  Don was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Evelyn Matheny and W. June Adams.

Private burial will take place at Western Reserve Cemetery in Rittman. The family suggests that those who are so inclined may wish to honor Don’s memory by installing a bird feeder. Online obituary and guest registry are available at www.zakmonbarrenfh.com

(Zak-Thacker & Monbarren, 330-658-2211)

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