Gary H. Houle

Gary H. (“Chip”) Houle of Wilton, NY, passed away at the age of 72 on July 3, 2026, following a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer. Chip’s last moments were in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on May 20th, 1954, in Cohoes, NY, to the late Francis J. Houle and Agnes Connors Houle.

After graduating from Cohoes High School, Chip attended and successfully completed the Watervliet Arsenal machinist apprentice program. This was the start of his 28yr career as a machinist at the Watervliet Arsenal. Following his retirement from civilian government service, Chip embarked on a second career in the Price Chopper/Market32 meat and deli departments where customers and their children knew him as “The Cheese Man”. Ever the kind, affable and generous man, his supermarket employment offered Chip an opportunity to apply his natural talents for social interaction and genuine interest in others. His affinity for engagement with others continued beyond his 27 years at the market when he retired for a second time and promptly sought part-time employment at a small local liquor store.

In January of 1975, Chip met Pamela Lyman. They fell in love and were married 8 months later. In 1980 Chip and Pam moved from their Cohoes apartment to Wilton, NY where they raised their three children and lived happily until his death.

Always an avid NY Mets and Baltimore Ravens fan, Chip devotedly supported his teams through both successful and abysmal seasons. He also possessed a wealth of general sports knowledge, which came in handy when playing a family Trivial Pursuit game or placing a bet.

Chip also enjoyed vegetable gardening (“if you can’t eat it it’s not worth growing “), dinners out with his wife, family and friends, and trips to various casinos.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Chip found his greatest happiness in time spent with his family. Whether it was coaching and rooting on his children's and cherished grandchildren’s sports and school activities, annual trips to the Cape Cod seashore, or extended family get-togethers.

Chip is survived by his wife of 51yrs, Pam; children: Jason Houle of Gansevoort, NY, Daniel Houle of Atlanta, GA, and Lea Houle of Queensbury, NY; siblings: Karen Grose, David and Mark Houle; grandchildren: Luke and Avery Manning, Adelynne Houle and Ayden Eberhard; numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, and brothers Frank (Tyke) and John (Jack) Houle.

The Houle family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Saratoga Palliative Care and Community Hospice, Chip’s neighbors, family, and friends for their compassionate assistance during this difficult time.

Relatives and friends may call from 4-6pm, Sunday, July 12th at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373).

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com