Matthew J. Houska

Matthew J. Houska, age 39 of Grafton, North Dakota passed away Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at his home in Grafton.
Matthew Joseph Houska was born August 21, 1985 in Grafton, North Dakota, the son of Janice (Credit) Houska and the late Ronald Houska.  He went on to graduate from Grafton High school in 2006. He began receiving SEP vocational services at Friendship in 2006. Matt then moved into his own apartment in August 2011. He began working at All Seasons Laundry in April of 2018 where he was loved and adored by both his co-workers and staff. 
Matt received many awards, including a national award for his work as a pianist. He played the harmonica, guitar, saxophone, xylophone and keyboard. Matt's love of music was shared with the world through his two very own CDs. He was always eager to share his talent with us when asked to perform at CQL, NDACP, or any other function. Matt was the 2006 APSE Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner for his "Music By Matt" business. In 2007 he won the National APSE Entrepreneur of the Year Award for his musical talents. 
When Matt wasn't busy creating music he enjoyed bowling, board games, puzzles, going to church, where he was an Altar Server for many years and spending time with his friends and family. He was friendly, outgoing, and loved to joke with others.
Matt was an advocate for those with intellectual disabilities and was the 2009 Buddy Walk representative. Matt described himself on his social media as a "cool guy" and we could not agree more. One of his best friends was his cat, Buddy. He had a gentle and loving demeanor that will be missed by all. 
Matthew is survived by his mother, Janice Houska, Grafton, ND; brothers:  Clint Potulny, Fordville, ND; Todd (Delene) Potulny; niece and nephews:  Ashley (Paul) Tweten, Tyler Potulny, Austin Potulny, Tanner (Olivia) Potulny; great niece and nephew:  Ezra and Everley; his best friend, Buddy.  He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Houska (11/26/2024); his beloved grandparents:  Joseph and Valerie Houska and Freddy and Rosanna Credit; uncles: Larry Credit, Forrest Isaacson, Allen Groven, Phil Robinson and aunt Delores Robinson.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at 10:30 A.M. at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church of Grafton.  Visitation will be on Tuesday for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Inurnment will be at the St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in the spring.

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