It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rick Houdek, age 73, a beloved husband, grandfather, brother, and friend, who passed away on January 14, 2026.

Stanley Rickey Houdek was born on November 16, 1952, in Bryan, Texas, to Pat Heine Houdek and Stanley Martin Houdek. From an early age, Rick learned the value of hard work and service to others. After graduating from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1971, he served as a Houston police officer for six years. He later returned to Birch, Texas, where he built and operated a country store until 1985.

On July 1, 1982, Rick married the love of his life, Gail Nichols Allen. Their 43½ years together were filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering love—a partnership that was admired by everyone who knew them.

In 1985, Rick began a career as a title examiner for a law firm in Austin and also worked as a landman for oil and gas companies, including Clayton Williams, Jr. He took great pride in his work, but his greatest pride was always his family.

Rick was never happier than when he was spending time with his grandchildren—Jeffrey, Josh, and Ashley. He loved sharing stories, offering advice, and simply being present in their lives. He was equally proud of his seven great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Rick found peace and happiness on the golf course, in the deer blind, on the water fishing, cheering on football or baseball, or working on his farm. He was known for his generous heart, quiet strength, and thoughtful nature. If you needed help, Rick was always there.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Stan Houdek, and his stepchildren, Melissa Gail Brown and Michael Lynn Allen.

Rick is survived by his devoted wife, Gail Houdek; his grandchildren, Jeffrey Brown and wife Laci, Josh Brown and wife Tara, and Ashley Hedge and husband Ryan; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Kate, Savannah, Levi, Ellie, Maggie, Calvin, and Everett. He is also survived by his sisters, Lisa Houdek and Nan Latimer and husband, David. Rick shared a special bond with his cousin Ronnie Gaas and wife Cathy, and his son-in-law, Jeff Brown, all of whom held a very special place in his heart. He leaves behind many friends and extended family who will forever miss his steady presence and kind soul.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Rick's nurse, Wendy Walker, his caregiver, Sofia Kirk, and weekend on-call nurses Jodie and Lillian. Their compassion, kindness, and loving care brought Rick comfort and meant more than words can express.

A graveside service will be held at Our Lady of the Rosary Cemetery in Georgetown, Texas, at 1:00, Thursday, January 22, followed by a reception at The Club at Berry Creek in Georgetown, Texas at 2:30.

Steve Galan of River Rock Bible Church will officiate.

Rick will be honored by pallbearers Jeff Brown, Jeffrey Brown, Josh Brown, Ryan Hedge, Ronnie Gaas, and Josh Powell. Honorary pallbearers are Bob Whetsell, Terry Genenbacher, and Jim Loerwald.

"In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to Faith in Action at https://www.faithinactiongt.org/give."