DONALD LYNN HOUGHTON

Donald L. Houghton, 71, of Bay City died on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 in Covenant Healthcare, Harrison Campus, Saginaw. He was born July 23, 1954, a twin son, to Alvin “Tom” and Blanche (Goniwicha) Houghton. He was married to Jayne Ellen Barden on March 19, 1977.

Don and his twin brother, Daniel, were the second set of twins in their family. He grew up in Kingston in a large, close-knit family of seventeen children. Don attended Kingston schools where he excelled in sports. He had a great sense of humor and an outgoing personality. Don maintained an appreciation for sports, especially the University of Michigan team. He enjoyed attending Detroit Tigers games with his son, Brent, and other relatives. Don was fond of being outdoors, golfing with his son, and riding his bicycle. He like winning at Euchre, they even named the “Houghton Loaner” after him. Don had a strong work ethic and rarely missed a day of work. He was employed by General Motors in Pontiac for thirty-two years. What Don loved the most was spending time with his family, especially being the best Papa to his grandchildren, Isabell and Donovan. He was a dedicated believer in God. Don fought hard and lived life to the very end, always kept a positive attitude, and will be forever missed.

Don is survived by the mother of his children, Jayne Houghton; their children: Brent (Bridgette) Houghton, Chelsey Houghton; grandchildren Isabell, Houghton, Donovan Houghton; step granddaughter, Kaylynn (Luke) Coulter and their baby girl, Oakley; brothers: Jerry Houghton, Marvin (Vickey) Houghton, Daniel (Sandra) Houghton, Harold ( Patricia) Houghton, John (Tracey) Houghton; sisters: Jane (Burt) Lester, Donna Krumenaker, Mary Lou (Jack) Burns, Christine (Mike) Diegel, Winnifred (Jeff) Jensen, Angela Houghton, Jacqueline Houghton, Diana (Mike) Campbell; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Elaine LaJoie; younger brothers: Howard Houghton, Alan Houghton.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026 in the Brentwood Dining and Event Center of Caro from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with a service at 2:00 p.m. led by Sam Leppert, Funeral Celebrant. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Kingston