John Allen Houle

Bloomington, MN - John A. Houle 92 of Bloomington MN was born June 7, 1933 in Brained, MN and passed away on May 17, 2026. He is survived by his loving family Julie Houle, Karen (Jim Dow) Houle, Catherine (Tony) Torntore, grandchildren Matthew, Nicholas, Thomas, Angela, Oliver, Mabel, Sophie, and Selam, sister Ruth Markham, brothers Phillip Houle, Ron (Sherry) Houle, special cousin Lynn (Bonnie) Olson, extended family and many friends. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 years, Coral and his parents Phillip and Mabel. John was born and raised on a small farm in Brainerd, MN. He attended a one-room schoolhouse, served in the US Army and attended the University of Minnesota on the GI Bill. His college experience was transformational and profoundly shaped the rest of his life. He was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, made many lifelong friends and it was there he met Coral when they were both students. They married in 1959 and raised their family in Bloomington, eventually moving into their final home on their "Golden Pond" that became the center of our family's universe for 35 years. He was a loving husband to Coral. He was her biggest champion and took great pleasure in all of her accomplishments in public service and elected office. He was a true Girl Dad to his daughters and was cherished by his grandchildren beyond measure. John was a lifelong entrepreneur. While a student at the university he met his dear friend and future Zinpro Corporation founder Dean Anderson, from whom he learned many life lessons. He and Coral supported Zinpro from its inception, and he proudly served on its board of directors. He took great pride in sharing Dean and Mary's success story with friends and family and treasured their friendship. He guided Karen in the founding of her business and served as her role model and advisor for 40 years. He co-owned Bloomington-based Lee Products for more than 35 years with Rey Lee until his retirement at age 90. He was a proud and active member of Bloomington Rotary for over three decades. Our family extends our gratitude to Friendship Village, Methodist Hospital and the Bloomington First Responders for their compassionate and respectful care. A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, June 19 at 11:00 am at Normandale Lutheran Church 6100 Normandale Road, Edina, MN with Visitation at 10:00 am and luncheon following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to: University of Minnesota Foundation, 200 Oak St SE, STE 500 55455

John Allen Houle

June 7, 1933 - May 17, 2026

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