Mary E. Houck (Hellthaler)

Dr. Mary E. Houck of Perrysburg, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 28, 2025, following a brief stay at Hospice of Northwest Ohio. She was 91.

Mary was a loving daughter, sister-in-law, and cherished friend, known for her intellect, curiosity, and quiet kindness. She was born on September 14, 1934, in Flint, Michigan, the only child of European immigrants Kurt and Alexandra Hellthaler. Their deep appreciation for culture, history, and learning shaped Mary’s lifelong fascination with the world.

Mary earned her medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School in 1960, one of only seven women in her graduating class to do so. In 1962, she moved to the Toledo area, where she completed her residency at Toledo Hospital and chose anesthesiology as her specialty. A self-described night owl, she nevertheless built a distinguished career, devoting 35 years of compassionate service as an anesthesiologist at Toledo Hospital before retiring in 1997.

An avid reader and passionate traveler, Mary nurtured a lifelong love of royal history and collecting royal memorabilia—interests that began in childhood and flourished after retirement. She traveled to more than 56 countries, returning home with art, historical treasures, and souvenirs that filled her home with beauty and stories. She especially delighted in collecting Hummel figures, a fond interest she shared with her parents. Her love of reading and learning helped her build an extensive personal library, portions of which she generously donated to the Way Public Library.

Through years of dedicated reading and research in English, French, German, and Spanish, Mary became a trusted authority on European royal history among her friends. Her home reflected her scholarly nature, with books meticulously organized using a detailed Rolodex system she designed herself. In quieter moments, she could often be found reading at home, content in the company of a beloved cat. In her younger years, she also volunteered at the Way Public Library, reading aloud to those who could no longer read independently.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Kurt and Alexandra Hellthaler, and her former husband, Larry Houck. She is survived by her cherished cousin, Rayhana of England, along with many dear friends and neighbors who became her chosen family.

Mary was deeply loved and admired by all who knew her, and she will be missed immensely. In her memory, donations may be made to the Way Public Library or the Wood County Humane Society.