Bow, NH – Larry James Houghton, 70, of Bow, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his own home on Saturday February 28th, surrounded by those he loved and his beloved dog Jake.
Larry was born in Seoul, South Korea, in 1955, shortly after the Forgotten War ended. His life was saved by the wonderful people of The Holt Adoption Agency who were responsible for getting him on one of the last flights of orphans to leave the country before the Korean government put a stop to their war orphans being released for adoption outside their war-torn country.
Born Kim Kee Tek, Larry was originally placed with a family in Detroit MI, but due to the family’s health issues, was later adopted in 1957 by Ralph & Barbara Houghton of Bow.
Larry grew up in Bow and attended Bow schools, graduating from Concord High School class of 1974. Larry enrolled in nursing school at the then NH State Hospital before making his career in law enforcement. Larry joined the Pembroke Police Department in 1979, graduating with the 47th NH Police Academy, then held at the former Pease Air Force base.
Larry spent his entire 22-year career with the Pembroke Police Department, retiring in 2001 with the rank of Sergeant. During that time, he also served as Police Prosecutor, handling criminal cases for the department in the Hooksett District Court.
Following his police career and retirement from Pembroke, Larry joined the ranks of the State of New Hampshire Administrative Office of the Courts as a Court Security Officer, initially traveling as a CSO to many different District Courts in New Hampshire. He settled at Hillsboro District Court, serving the State of New Hampshire for another 20 years, retiring in 2021. As a court officer, Larry earned several accommodations for his attention to detail and professional response to the job and service to the court staff and the public who visit the courts.
In addition to his parents, Larry was predeceased by his mother & father-in-law, Frank & Madeline Williams, and sister-in-law Denise Sanel.
Larry is survived by his wife of 39 years, Darlene Houghton of Bow, Sister Kathy Houghton (Harry Burgess) of Meredith, NH, son Michael (Melissa) Brochu of Alsip, IL, Grandson David Blankenship Jr of Chattanooga TN, and Granddaughter Madison Brochu of Alsip, IL.
The family wishes to thank the Granite VNA Hospice team for their dedication and compassionate care, making it possible for Larry to remain in his home and assuring a death with dignity.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 1PM at Grace Capital Church in Pembroke, NH.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you recognize Larry’s kindness to all by making a generous donation to a charity of your choice in his name.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Bennett Funeral Home.
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