Buster “BR” Van Houten, 87, of Hazen, Arkansas passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. BR was the son of Commie and Viola (Mathis) Van Houten. BR was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Shirley Van Houten; A son Joseph “Joe” Van Houten; Four brothers, John, Leroy, Rudy, and TL “Skinny” Van Houten; and Two sisters, Gladys Vick and Charlotte Ivy. BR is survived by one son Scott (Diana) Van Houten of Hot Springs, Arkansas; One Granddaughter, Tess Van Houten of Okeechobee, Florida; One great granddaughter Aniya Dunn; two sisters, Ruby Petrus of Stuttgart, Arkansas and Bobbie Petty of Hazen, Arkansas; one brother Kenneth “Bumpin” Van Houten of Des Arc, Arkansas; and many nieces and nephews. BR leaves behind a special friend and caregiver Ms. Martha Holyfield. BR served in the National Guard, loved farming, was an avid duck hunter, and loved visiting with his friends and family. BR also loved going to Craig’s Barbeque with his sons. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the Hazen Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted with Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen.
Was a great man! Always provided a laugh or two with some good advice! Loved his boys! Prayers for the family!
I’m so sorry to hear of Mr. BR passing. He was such a sweet neighbor when I lived across street from him. Always making sure I was all right and joking about with me. May God hold you all close to him and give you comfort and peace.