September 13, 2000 — October 7, 2020
Allison Stefania Houser of La Cañada died peacefully at UCLA Medical Center with her mother by her side at the age of 20.
At birth, Allison was diagnosed with complex congenital heart defects, but she and her family made sure that this did not define her. Instead, Allison attended Palm Crest Elementary, La Cañada High School and California State University Northridge full time, and led an active life.
Allison enjoyed cooking, Girl Scouts, dance, family time, and playing with her dogs. Early on, she took a keen interest in art and carried this passion to high school, where she enrolled in advanced art and completed her portfolio.
After graduation in 2018, Allison enrolled at CSUN. There, she joined SAEPi, a Jewish Sorority, where she thrived. She found a loving environment at SAEPi, made many wonderful friends, and enjoyed great experiences, including beach trips, roller skating and charitable events.
At 15, it became imperative that Allison adhere to a highly restrictive low-sodium/high-protein diet. Because of this experience, Allison decided that she wanted to become a dietician so that she could help others who’ve suffered a similar plight. To that end, this summer she completed the very demanding organic chemistry course even though her health was failing, and doing so required much of her energy.
Though Allison was disappointed that she could not realize her dreams of becoming a dietician, adopting children or converting to Judaism as she had been contemplating, her family and friends will be forever grateful that despite her difficulties — her complex medical situation, the frequent trips to the doctor and multiple procedures — she was able to attend college, live in the CSUN dorms, and lead a normal and productive life, something that many of us take for granted.
Those who knew Allison would often comment on her sense of humor and her quick retorts — she was never one to suffer fools. She had a generous smile and was a kind spirit who cared deeply for others. Her life was an inspiration, and she will be missed by all.
Allison is survived by her loving family: her mother, Leslie Miller, of Altadena; her father, Glenn Houser, of San Juan, Puerto Rico; her elder sister, Julia Houser, of San Francisco; and her younger sister, Michelle Houser, a current FSHA student.
Donations in her name can be made to her sorority’s scholarship foundation at sigmaaepi.com/foundation or to LCHS ART c/o Spartan Boosters P.O. Box 154, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91012. Please indicate that you are donating in honor of Allison Houser.
