Ava Marie Houchlei

Ava Houchlei, 89, of Panama, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on February 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 21, 1935, in Rural Sorento to Mac and Ida Cooley.

Ava attended the one-room Kirkland School before marrying Dwyane Houchlei on February 6, 1955. She retired after 38 years at Hillsboro Glass, later working for 26 years at Fred’s Greenhouse and Nursery, where she was known for her love of plants and her fondness for chatting with customers. Ava’s true joy, however, came from her family. She adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom she cared for deeply. She especially loved babysitting for them and sharing in their lives.

Ava’s faith was a central part of her life, and she was a devoted member of Reno Baptist Church for many years and later Panama United Methodist Church. She was also a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, spending many afternoons and evenings listening to their games on the radio. However, Ava’s favorite athletes were her grandkids and great grandkids. She loved to read about them in the newspaper, saving every article they were mentioned in.

Ava is survived by her son Fred (Kim) Houchlei of Sorento, IL; her grandchildren Josh (Shannon) Houchlei of Hillsboro, IL, Jenny (Sam) Lagermann of Sorento, IL, and Jake (Kristen Grady) Houchlei of Greenville, IL; and her great-grandchildren Shelby and Sadie Houchlei, and Stella, Ava, and Hunter Lagermann. She is also survived by her sister Joy Grodanier of Mankato, KS, and sister-in-law Vina Houchlei of Sorento, IL, along with many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly.

Ava was preceded in death by her beloved husband Dwyane Houchlei, her parents Mac and Ida Cooley, her twin sister Eva Thomas, her sister Alice “Boots” McCall, and her brother Bob Cooley, brother-in-law Elmer Houchlei and Les Hampton, and sister-in-law Geraldine Hampton.

Ava’s legacy of love, faith, and dedication to her family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Ava and Eva’s ashes will be rejoined in their final resting place at Sunnyside Cemetery.

Per Ava’s wishes, a graveside service will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to: Sunnyside Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 267, Sorento, IL 62086.

The family has entrusted Assalley Funeral Home in Panama with the arrangements.

Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories or offer condolences to the family.