April 25, 1961-July 25, 2025
Trevor Jay Houghton, 64, of Kansas City, Missouri, died on Friday, July 25, 2025, following a short battle with glioblastoma. Trevor was born in Kansas City, Kansas, on April 25, 1961, to George Dwaine Houghton and Rose Resovich Houghton. His heart and concern for the most vulnerable—both people and animals, passion for social justice issues, hard-working nature, and remarkable sense of humor made him beloved by all who knew him. He was beyond thankful to have a soulmate in his wife, Beth Huliska Houghton, who shared all those endearing qualities.
Whether it was playing outside with his sister, Hilary Houghton Duderstadt, and neighborhood friends during his childhood, racing or riding with his cycling buddies, or working alongside his firefighting colleagues, Trevor’s adventurous, fun-loving, generous spirit was always on full display.
Cross country, track, wrestling, and journalism were among the activities Trevor was involved in at JC Harmon High School, where he graduated in 1979. He was a lifelong reader with an ardent love of music and an expansive memory, which allowed him to contribute appropriately to almost any conversation—and often enrich it with his well-loved storytelling. Trevor maintained a very active lifestyle in adulthood, especially via competitive cycling. His cycling buddies were some of his closest friends throughout his life.
Just like his parents and sister, Trevor was servant-hearted. His servant heart led him to pursue a career in firefighting. After graduating from the Kansas City Fire Academy on December 24, 1989, Trevor impacted countless lives during his 33 years with the Kansas City Fire Department. He served as a fire captain and EMT at the time of his retirement in 2022.
Trevor was very proud to be a part of such a special brotherhood in the KCFD, but nothing made him happier than his true love, Beth, or “Betty” as he often called her. Trevor and Beth tied the knot on November 12, 2016, in Kansas City, Missouri. Just a few of his favorite things he enjoyed with Beth included traveling, spending time with friends and family, being pet parents and supporting animal rights, riding motorcycles, going to concerts, trying different vegetarian recipes, and so much more. Even during his final weeks, cancer couldn’t stop Trevor from smiling at Beth as she cared for him.
Trevor was preceded in death by his parents, mother-in-law, Mary Huliska, and brother-in-law, Glen Duderstadt. He is survived by Beth, Hilary, his father-in-law Gary Huliska, sisters-in-law Laura Huliska-Beith (Jeff) and Amy Lee (Bob), brothers-in-law Greg (Liz) and Chris (Jeanne) Huliska, 10 nieces and nephews (Christopher Duderstadt, Ivy and Jackson Lee, Carden Bagwell, Anna, Joey, Isaac, Gabe, Cameron and Claire Huliska), great-nephew Reed Duderstadt and many beloved cousins.
A celebration of life for Trevor will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, at the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 42, 6320 Manchester Ave., Kansas City, MO 64133.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to be made to KC Pet Project (https://kcpetproject.org/donate/ and The Byrne Out Cancer Foundation (https://www.byrneoutcancer.org/).
Written by Christopher Duderstadt
Friend since 1974 ,Overland Park ,Kansas
Condolences and regrets. To all family and friends. Trevor was a good friend to me. I know that he was loyal to the cause. Not matter what. He was determined to get the job done. Correctly. I remember him in high school. Running mile after mile. Even though he suffered from shin slints. Later in life it was always a good conversation with Trevor. He always had a though out statement to be made. About the subject of discussion. Thanks for being my FRIEND. May You, REST IN PARADISE.
Neighbor ,Kansas City ,Missouri
From myself and the whole Rodriguez family, to the Houghton family amd friends,you have our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies. Trevor was a great man, a great neighbor and the best friend. Ill miss him greatly
Friends ,Miami ,Florida
My condolences to the Houghton family. Trevor was a very kind and loving mentor to me when I was a junior bicycle racer in my early teens. We had a lot of long rides, drives to races and laughed. He made a very significant and positive impact on my life. I am so sorry for your loss. With my deepest sympathy, Spencer
Very sorry Hillary, for the passing of your brother. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs from Osawatomie.
