Michael Bruce Houk, beloved grandfather, father, brother, and friend, passed away on October 23, 2024, at the age of 74, after a battle with cancer. Born on October 30, 1949, in Webster, South Dakota, Mike was the son of George and Marion (Deeble) Houk and grew up with his admired older brother George and his adored baby sister Barbie.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024, from 5-7 PM at Miller Funeral Home Southside Chapel. A memorial service will be held at Our Savior's Lutheran Church on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM.

Mike, known to many as "General", "Bapa", or "Monkey Mike" will be fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, dentistry, and the Nebraska Cornhuskers. In 1974, he married Margaret Cunningham and together they had two daughters, Amy and Teri.  His daughters, along with their families, were the lights of his life. Mike was raised in Webster, SD and the friendships he made in his youth are still strong today.

Mike graduated from Augustana in 1971, and the University of Nebraska – College of Dentistry in 1977. He lived his life with a "servant heart" and had a passion for service.  Mike practiced dentistry in Sioux Falls for many years. He also loved to teach and donate his time. Mike volunteered countless hours providing dental care for those in need.  Over the course of many years, Mike led mission trips to Peru.  It was these experiences that were some of the most impactful events in his life and in the lives of those he served.  In 2010 he began a professorship role at his beloved alma mater, The University of Nebraska – and it was the feather in his professional cap.

After retirement, Mike enjoyed racking up countless miles on the bike trails in Sioux Falls, traveling to spend time with his grandkids, and reading.  When not doing these, you could always find him next to his sister Barbie hanging at Stubbies enjoying some pizza, or taking in a show together at the Pavilion.  The care that Mike put into things that were important to him was intense, and those close to him will miss him every day.

Mike is survived by his daughters, Amy (husband Dave Kriesel, and children Abigail, Austin, Anna, and Alex) and Teri (husband Chad, and children Lucy and Lyla), one brother George (wife, Susie), and one sister, Barb. Mike prized nothing above his family.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, George and Marion Houk, and brother-in-law, Bill "The Brinkdog" Brinker.

In his own words on how he wants you to remember him, "I loved my family profoundly – more than my own life.  I was born to be a teacher."

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity close to his heart:

www.seashepherd.org (Empowering ongoing action to preserve our oceans)

Any cash donations will be donated to The Brinkdog Scholarship and The Sam Milanovich Scholarship.