Charles "Mike" Michael Houston

Charles “Mike” Michael Houston, age 73, of Marion, Illinois, passed away suddenly on March 18, 2026, at Barnes Hospital due to a brain bleed caused by a fall. He left this world surrounded by those who loved him.

Mike was born on December 19, 1952, in Spokane, Washington, to Charles and Mary K (Culbreth) Houston. He graduated from Marion High School in 1970 and was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era, serving honorably as a Field General COMSEC Repairman. On August 14, 1976, he married the love of his life, Randi Edwards, and together they built a faithful, devoted, and occasionally comical almost 50‑year marriage.

Mike loved life and did his best to have fun—often succeeding more than the rest of us combined. In his younger years, he enjoyed woodworking. He was a proud Marion Wildcat supporter who never missed a Friday night game, in person or on TV, and he treated the stadium like his second home. He helped establish the Marion Baseball Softball Parents Organization, creating a foundation that continues to support Marion High School baseball and softball programs.

Some of his happiest days were spent at Pyramid Acres Campground—swimming, boating, and visiting with fellow campers who quickly became like family. At home, he could often be found helping Randi in the yard or garden, and he delighted in cooking for others. Above all, Mike loved his family and friends deeply, and he showed it through generosity, humor, and a steady, dependable presence.

Mike is survived by his wife, Randi Houston; his son, Jeffrey Houston, and Jeffrey’s fiancée, Olivia Martinez; his sister, Barbara (Dr. Edward) Blair; his brother, Richard Houston; his brother‑in‑law, Mike (Linda) Edwards; nieces Lindsay (James) Marsh and Lauren (Matt) Voelker and their families; nephews Tony (Tamzen) Edwards and Aaron (Ruth) Edwards and their families; and his faithful boxer companion, Rousey.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary K Houston; and his in‑laws, Dorthea (Malone) Edwards and Esco Edwards Jr.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley‑Ross. A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Blue Funeral Home, 1704 N. Court St., Marion, Illinois, beginning at 10:00 a.m., with a service to follow at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Marion Unit 2 Baseball/Softball Parents Association, PO Box 312, Marion, Illinois 62959.