Teresa Helena Maria Houben
elevated wJBjI January 27, 1963 – November 26, 2025
elevated wJBjI Visitation
Wednesday December 3, 2025 from 2-4 pm & 6-8 pm
elevated wJBjI Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 3Z6
elevated wJBjI Funeral Service – Archbishop Pocock Room (within the Funeral Home)
Thursday December 4, 2025 at 10 am
elevated wJBjI Interment
Christ the King Catholic Cemetery
7777 Steels Ave East, Markham, ON L6B 1A8
elevated wJBjI Reception to follow
Christ the King Catholic Cemetery
7777 Steels Ave East, Markham, ON L6B 1A8
elevated wJBjI Obituary
Ms. Teresa H. Houben, 62, of Port Perry, Ontario, passed away on November 26, 2025, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa. Born on January 27, 1963, Teresa was the beloved daughter of the late John Houben and Maria Houben (née Berkens).
elevated wJBjI Teresa dedicated her life to serving her community as a firefighter, a role in which she displayed courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Outside of her work, she found joy in tending to her garden, especially her treasured rose bushes, and in the companionship of her beloved dogs, Kane and Kassey.
elevated wJBjI Teresa was the loving wife of John Neary, with whom she shared a life built on devotion and mutual support. She is survived by her siblings Mike Houben (Danielle), Pauline Bax (John), Trudy Vandyk (the late Henry), Gerry Houben (Marian), Annie Ainsworth (Fred), Mary Houben, Peter Houben (Angie), and Bernie Houben (the late Beth), as well as many loving nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her brother Joseph Houben (Fran).
R.I.P Teresa,(Sister)My Condolences to John& your Family!You were Taken to Early, I Often thought of you over the years,know that you won’t be Forgotten!
My deepest condolences to John and the family. Teresa was such an amazing person, we spent many hrs talking during recruit class and on the job. RIP my dear friend, you will always be remembered.
Teresa: Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace.
Sincere condolences. God bless. Rest in peace Sister
I remember Teresa as spicy and sharp. She was always professional to her crew and the public who she served. She was a trailblazer, one of the first female firefighters setting an example for us all. She was taken too soon, and deserved much more time. Rest easy Houbey.
I feel so much sadness when I see your picture. You were taken too young. You were such a wonderful person with a huge heart. I’ll cherish the memories of you.
Sleep well Teresa.
It was a pleasure spending time with you
So very sorry to hear about Teresa’s passing. She was a very kind and lovely lady. We will keep you all in our prayers and we send our love and sympathy.
I am saddened to hear of Teresa’s passing. Teresa had a very methodical approach to firefighting and, as such, she remained cool and focused in tense situations (“Let’s do it the way we were trained!”).
Rest in Peace, Sister.
Rest in peace our dear friend teresa
Deepest condolences.
Teresa was always ready to offer an ear and a hand. Way too young. Way too soon. We are all better off having spent time with you.
God Bless Teresa, you will be deeply missed. With heart felt condolences the Mattacchione family.
My deepest condolences to the family.
Teresa, you always displayed love and kindness to everyone. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to meet and get to know you at Immaculate Conception.
My deepest condolences to the family.
I will miss you Teresa, but I’m comforted knowing you are now resting in the arms of Jesus. You were a true inspiration to me, a woman of courage and unwavering faith, never afraid to proclaim your love for Christ. May you rest in peace.
You will be missed Aunt Teresa ❤️. I am sorry for your loss John.
Teresa’s passing is heartbreaking. I began my career beside her, and she made a lasting impact on me and so many others. My thoughts are with her family and everyone who knew her.
Teresa was a vibrant, no nonsense, tell it like it is individual, and we loved her for that. Her dedication and commitment to her family and firefighting was admirable.
Rest in peace Houbey 🩷
Sorry for your loss John. May God help you in your time of need buddy
Rest in peace sister. You will be missed.
John, our sincerest condolences. We know Teresa was a steadfast companion and she will be greatly missed. May God continue to guide you and give you the strength and courage you need to face this loss.
Peace be with you, Martin and Bettina
I am sorry to know of the loss of Teresa. She was always friendly and kind. I will remember her.
Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord.
Far too soon! Rest in peace sister.