Imogene Houran

Imogene Louise Houran, [Bedford], aged 105, of Grand Rapids passed away peacefully on Friday, January 3, 2025.

Imogene was born in Grand Rapids, MI in the summer of 1919 to the late Earl and Louise Bedford.

Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of over 40 years, Francis, “F. Clair” who passed away in 1985 as well as by her granddaughter Debra Houran and brother Donald Bedford.

Imogene is survived by her children, Jack Houran, Michael (Sherry) Houran and Betsi (Jon) Andreasen as well as by her grandchildren Scott and Thomas Houran, Kristi Houran, Michel (Kevin) Greene and Jake (Mallory) Andreasen and great-grandson John Bennett Andreasen.

She had been an active member at both Wallin Congregational and Trinity Congregational Churches.

Imogene was a wonderful, humble and gracious person all of her 105 years. She met the love of her life, Clair, at a dance when he was on reprieve from World War II in which he served. She became his devoted wife, a loving mother of three, a lovely homemaker and a volunteer at many school and church activities in Grand Rapids, MI. The family often picnicked and spent precious time up North at the family cottage built by her parents, Earl and Louise Bedford. This special, charming place is at the highest point of the Little Muskegon River. Together the two hosted many gatherings of family and friends.

Imogene learned to drive an automobile at age 42 and also gained accounting skills. Later she started her own accounting firm, serving several churches and local businesses. A turning point was when Clair died at age 67, but she stayed active in her church and worked until she was 85 years old. This admirable lady had many friendships, enjoyed reading, painting landscapes,and of course, her dogs, cats and wild birds.

In her last years, she never lost joy in entertaining with teas/coffee, canapes and Windmill Cookies. With her hearing declining and memory digressing at times, she always maintained, (right up to her peaceful end), her wonderful sense of humor. A life well lived. Rest in peace, dear Imogene, with your beloved Clair and beautiful granddaughter Debbie.

Much thanks go out to the wonderful staff at Vista Springs/Courtland for their good care of “Imy” and all the devoted people who continued to visit her.

Memorial services have been scheduled to take place on Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 12:00 PM at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Alt-Shawmut Chapel, (2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504).

Friends may meet with family for a time of visiting prior to the service beginning at 11:00 AM.

Imogene will be laid to rest next to Clair in Martin Cemetery in Grand Rapids Township.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Crashes Landing, (3433 River Hill Dr, Grand Rapids, MI 49534).

To post a memory, photo, or sign Imogene’s guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com.