Ada Jean (Wiles) Hauck

Ada Jean (Jeanne) Wiles Hauck peacefully passed away in her home surrounded by family on Thursday, March 15, 2018.  Born in Champaign, IL on September 12, 1924 to Harold Archie Wiles and Bessie Iris Susdorf Wiles, she was the oldest of three children.  In spite of a congenital birth defect, Jeanne lived her life with a quiet determination and strength that allowed her to overcome obstacles and inspire many.  As a lifelong learner, she earned an associates degree from Illinois Commercial College, took art courses from the University of Illinois Extension Service, and completed two years toward a BA from the University of Illinois.  Throughout her life she was an avid reader and a curious student.  Later in life, she continued her quest for knowledge by attending Elder Hostel trips with her husband and friends. 

While working at the Agronomy Department at the University of Illinois, she met a young graduate student who stole her heart and offered her the life of travel and adventure she had always dreamed of.  Soon after they were married they moved to Liberia, Africa and lived on a Firestone Rubber Plantation.  There she gave birth to her first child, Michael Lee Hauck.  It was in Liberia, on a wood burning stove, where she found her love and talent for cooking and hospitality.  Through the years she and Roland graciously opened their home to many people.

In 1960 they left Africa and began a new adventure in Florence, AL.  It was in Florence where she gave birth to her second child, Denise Michele Hauck, entertained visiting scientists from around the world, patiently and lovingly raised her two children, and faithfully supported her husband in his endeavors.  Jeanne made some dear friends, acted as family historian, and volunteered with organizations such as the PTA and League of Womens Voters, and driving around exploring the countryside. She also traveled extensively domestically and abroad.

As she aged, Jeanne’s mobility became more difficult so she met that challenge by joining a gym and working with a personal trainer.  For about 20 years she inspired fellow athletes with her dedication and determination.  She reluctantly quit the gym at the age of 91 upon the urging of her doctors.  In her true optimistic nature, Jeanne hoped that her health would improve.

She will be remembered for her bright blue eyes and dazzling smile, her quiet strength, creativity, and sweet and loving spirit. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Charles, one brother-in-law, and three sisters-in-law.  She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Roland Daniel Hauck; two children Michael Hauck (Julie), Denise Moore (Michael); four grandchildren, Charles (Chase) Bailey Moore, Christopher Wiles Moore, Grace Alexandra Hauck, Theresa Ann Hauck; her brother Donald Wiles; and nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, March 23 at Greenview Memorial Cemetery in Florence, Alabama.  Visitation will be 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Greenview on the day of the funeral.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library

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