William Houchens

Ruel Houchens 81 of Glasgow, KY passed away Friday, September 17, 2010 at Baptist East Hospital, In Louisville, KY after a lengthy illness. He was born June 20, 1929, the son of the late Buford Houchens and Gladys Steenbergen Houchens. He married Nell Jackson on September 7, 1950. After returning to Glasgow as a Veteran of the Korean War, Ruel began his career with Houchens Markets under the tutelage of his uncle, Ervin Houchens, founder of Houchens Grocery. Ruel was active with Houchens Industries for over 40 years, taking what Ervin Houchens started in Lucas and built the company to over 50 Houchens Markets and 150 Save-A-Lot food stores. He worked in the stores, traveled on the road to each store and later became President and Chairman of the Board for Houchens. After Red Foods bought Houchens in the 1980s Ruel became CEO and Chairman of the Board. Ruel was the key player in the establishment of the ESOP of Houchens Industries which is the largest employee stock ownership plan in the world. Ruel always had a heart for children, taking part in raising many children as if they were his own. He was instrumental in organizing the Glasgow-Barren Co. Boys and Girls Club which was formed in 2006 and has continued to play a major role in its support to this day. Ruel was key to the success of the Kentucky Boys and Girls Ranch and was also instrumental in the establishment of Glasgow Success Academy and Tee to Green. Ruel always gave strong support to the community and was a huge supporter of Community Medical Care for which he received the Centurion Award. Among Ruel Houchens