Former President Houston's Father Passes Away

FEAS, PONDELLA--Former President Dave Houston's father, Richard V.H. Houston, died on Friday at his home in Feas. The elder Houston had been diagnosed with prostate cancer back in March 2006.

His father's illness was the reason the former president left Grassadella for his parents' native Pondella. At the time, Houston's departure drew sharp condemnation from his critics, who said his move out of the country was unpatriotic.

Richard Houston and his wife Viola, both born in Pondella, later moved to Grassadella, where their children were born. Their fourth child, David, rose quickly in politics, first serving as mayor of Grassadella Falls and later as Governor of Lial.

A Houston family spokeswoman did not say much to the media, only saying the family "is grieving the loss of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather."

Richard Houston is survived by his wife, 84-year-old Viola, of Feas, Pondella; son Dave Houston; daughters Liola Kemp, Arnellson, DMG; Lyla Hursch, Anderson, NWP; Jason Houston, Kenoly, LIA; and Richard Houston Jr., Clothen, LIA. Houston was age 85.