AUBURN – Robert C. Houghton, 82, of Oakwood Drive, Turner, died Friday, Feb. 24, at the Hospice House of Androscoggin Home Care after a short illness.

He was born in Auburn on Jan. 29, 1924, the son of Guy and Mary Sturtevant Houghton. He was educated in Auburn schools, graduating from Edward Little High School in 1942 along with his high school sweetheart, Shirley, and together they never missed a class reunion.

He served in the U.S. Army for three years during World War II, and was the recipient of the Purple Heart.

He was married on Dec. 15, 1945, to Shirley E. Barlow. They had just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

He was employed as a supervisor at Bird & Son prior to his retirement, and was employed by the Auburn Police Department as a parking enforcement officer.

He was a member of Sixth Street Congregational Church, Kora Temple, the Shriners and Tranquil Lodge of Auburn.

He enjoyed spending 16 years wintering in New Smyrna Beach, Fla., hunting, fishing, playing the organ, having his morning coffee at The Slamma, and Tuesday lunches with his friends. He had a great sense of humor and was a great kidder. He enjoyed the company of his pet dog, Half-Pint, and cat, Buttons.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley, of Turner; a daughter, Joan Stasulis and husband Larry of Vermont; a son, Rick Houghton and wife, Linda, of Turner; three grandchildren, Vicki Demag, and Keri and Matthew Stasulis, all of Vermont, to whom he was known as Bumpy; two great-grandchildren, Paul and Jake Demag of Vermont; and a half sister, Beverly Wellman of Scarborough.

He was predeceased by his parents.